The exhibit, Layers of Place, is a curated collection of six location-based AR experiences encouraging exploration of often unseen dimensions of Austin’s public spaces—uncovering layers of history from forgotten pasts to overlooked presents and speculative futures.
Through this collective exploration, the campus transforms into a platform for multidimensional, pluralistic inquiry, delving into themes such as racial justice, historical memory, monuments, environmental stewardship, and the impact of technology on civic life. The importance of plurality is central, presenting seven perspectives on different concepts and viewpoints. In a world that is increasingly polarized and lacking in nuanced perspectives, Layers of Place emphasizes the communal experience. By expanding “public space” to include both the tangible campus environment and the virtual layers accessible through AR, we create a new form of communal experience.