San Francisco’s historic Old Mint has welcomed two ground-breaking exhibitions that highlight the intersection of digital art and cutting-edge technology. These displays, primarily focused on augmented reality (AR), offer visitors an immersive experience that redefines the way art is perceived and enjoyed.

‘Verse: Art of the Future’ – A Peek into the Metaverse

The first exhibition, titled “Verse: Art of the Future,” is not an exploration of poetry but rather a pioneering venture into the metaverse. The exhibition employs AR technology to present digital artworks that can be accessed through advanced devices.

Described as a “silent disco for holograms,” the show features digital artworks guests can view individually through Microsoft HoloLens 2 smart glasses. Each patron experiences a unique personal journey without disturbing others, enhancing the exhibition’s interactive nature.

Exhibition Details

The environment plays a crucial role in this exhibition. Visitors enter a dimly-lit corridor lined with what appears to be empty vaults, evoking a sense of mystery. Through the headsets, they encounter virtual artworks, revealing a hidden world bursting with digital creativity.

Ray Kallmeyer, CEO of Enklu—responsible for the exhibition’s AR technology—believes that “institutions that don’t modernize are left in the dust.” This statement reflects the growing necessity for museums to integrate new technologies to remain relevant to younger audiences, particularly Gen Z and Millennials.

Tickets for “Verse” are available in different tiers, allowing visitors to choose their experience. A $20 social pass grants access to the space without the headsets, whereas the general admission at $39 includes headset use. A premium ticket for $85 includes both the AR experience and a collectible NFT, emphasizing the fusion of traditional art and modern technology.

‘The Unreal Garden’ – An Immersive Interactive Experience

Complementing “Verse” is “The Unreal Garden,” aimed at families and art enthusiasts alike. This immersive experience blends real-world elements with virtual designs, creating a surreal garden reminiscent of “Alice in Wonderland” and digitally-enhanced environments like those in “Avatar.”

Visitors can explore imaginative landscapes filled with holographic flora and fauna, including whimsical creatures and interactive digital art by renowned artists. The exhibition fosters user interaction, allowing guests to engage with elements within the space, enhancing the storytelling dimension of the experience.

Unique Visitor Experiences

In both exhibitions, the emphasis on interaction is a key aspect, with “The Unreal Garden” allowing visitors to embark on a personalized adventure. By following a path of illuminated dots or collecting virtual items, each participant can have a different experience, making it feel exclusive and dynamic.

These exhibitions collectively promote the potential of digital art, showcasing how technology can transform art galleries into interactive environments. Kallmeyer notes that this approach not only provides visual excitement but also supports artists by allowing direct sales of their work through NFTs, thus changing how art is valued and purchased.

Essential Information

Both exhibitions are housed within the Old Mint and are available for viewing until June. Here are the operational hours and ticketing details:

• Verse: Art of the Future:
  • Hours: Wednesdays & Thursdays 12:30 PM – 7:30 PM, Fridays & Saturdays 12:30 PM – 9:30 PM, Sundays 10:30 AM – 6 PM.
  • Tickets: $20 (social pass), $39 (general admission with headset), $85 (premium with NFT).
• The Unreal Garden:
  • Hours: Wednesdays & Thursdays 12:30 PM – 7 PM, Fridays & Saturdays 12:30 PM – 9 PM, Sundays 10:30 AM – 5:30 PM.
  • Tickets: Prices range from $45 to $80.

For additional details and to purchase tickets, visit the official exhibition websites.