The Great Exhibition of the North, an 80-day celebration of innovation, creativity, and culture, was a significant event for Newcastle-Gateshead. It brought together the past, present, and future of Northern England, highlighting its pioneering spirit and technological advancement.
The bid to host this monumental event was won by the imaginative use of technology, expertly showcased by Hedgehog Labs. Shaun Allan, the director of immersive technologies, led a groundbreaking presentation that showcased the potential of virtual and augmented reality, capturing the judges’ attention and ultimately securing the win.
The Power of Virtual Reality
Hedgehog Labs capitalised on the potential of virtual reality (VR) to present their bid for the Great Exhibition of the North in an innovative way. VR headsets were used to provide an immersive experience, transporting the judges to a vivid representation of Newcastle and Gateshead’s landmarks and events, such as live gigs.
Shaun Allan shared, “We edited it all into a VR experience and took 11 Samsung Gear headsets into the pitch, put them on the judges and said ‘this is what Newcastle-Gateshead is going to do for the Great Exhibition of the North’.” This innovative approach was pivotal in winning the bid.
Reviving History with Technology
Newcastle is renowned for its engineering heritage, as seen with the early steam locomotive, Stephenson’s Rocket, designed by Robert Stephenson in 1829. An immersive VR experience was created to take visitors on a historical journey aboard the Rocket, enhancing the exhibition’s appeal.
Despite the presence of a real version of the Rocket, the virtual experience aimed to provide visitors with an engaging and educational journey through history. This creative initiative reflects Newcastle’s commitment to blending heritage with modern technology.
Augmented Reality: The Future of Navigation
Alongside VR, augmented reality (AR) played a crucial role in the exhibition.
An AR app was developed to assist visitors in navigating the numerous venues across both sides of the River Tyne and offered features like wayfinding.
This technology exemplified modern innovation, offering participants a seamless way to explore the exhibition without getting lost in the vast array of exhibits and performances. It was a perfect integration of technology and user experience.
Celebration of Innovation and Creativity
The Great Exhibition of the North was not just about showcasing technological advancements but also celebrated creativity and innovation across diverse sectors.
From medical breakthroughs at Newcastle University to smart city developments at Science Central, the exhibition featured an array of displays highlighting the North’s contribution to technological progress.
The event involved over 30 venues, with key locations including the BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art, Sage Gateshead, and the Great North Museum, drawing significant attention from both participants and spectators.
Collaboration and Support
The success of the exhibition was underpinned by substantial collaboration and support from organisations such as the Heritage Lottery Fund and Innovate UK.
Their backing was instrumental in bringing the exhibition to fruition, ensuring that innovation and art were celebrated across the region on a grand scale.
Three ‘Get North’ trails focusing on art, design, and innovation, further emphasised the North’s vibrant cultural landscape.
Economic and Cultural Impact
The economic impact of hosting the Great Exhibition of the North was significant, with an influx of visitors boosting the local economy.
The cultural impact was equally profound, as it strengthened Newcastle-Gateshead’s status as a hub of innovation and creativity.
This exhibition not only fostered economic growth but also encouraged cultural exchange and dialogue, enhancing the region’s global reputation.
Beyond the Exhibition
The legacy of the Great Exhibition of the North extends beyond the event’s duration. It inspired ongoing innovation and collaboration in Newcastle and the wider Northern region.
By showcasing the region’s strengths, the exhibition paved the way for future projects and initiatives that continue to highlight the North’s pioneering spirit.
The event set a precedent for future exhibitions, demonstrating how technology can be harnessed to enhance cultural and educational experiences.
In conclusion, the Great Exhibition of the North was a testament to how technology, when used imaginatively, can transform cultural events and secure successful outcomes. The innovative use of VR and AR provided an unforgettable experience for visitors, illustrating the limitless potential of technological integration in such events.
As Newcastle-Gateshead continues to blaze a trail in tech and innovation, the legacy of the exhibition stands as a beacon of inspiration for future endeavours in the region.