Bridging the Future is a cutting-edge digital installation that transforms the museum’s historic architecture into a vivid journey through time.
The installation uses advanced projection mapping to cast a series of stunning animations onto the dome situated above the museum’s famed bird room, the Nelson Gallery.
This innovative use of the building’s architecture allows the display to be experienced from the ground-floor gallery or the first-floor walkway that connects the Earth in Space and Dresser galleries.
Visitors are invited to ‘enter the time machine’ as the projections explore key periods in Middlesbrough’s history, including stories from the prehistoric Jurassic era, the Industrial Revolution and World War II.
Inspired by community workshops exploring aspirations for Middlesbrough, visitors can also get a glimpse into what the future may hold, with animations depicting the potential future of the town over 1,000 years from now.
Designed to bridge the gap between traditional heritage and modern technology, the project provides an immersive experience using both animation and soundscapes.
It specifically aims to engage younger audiences, offering a digital format that is familiar and exciting, while remaining fully accessible to all visitors.
Jack Fahey Senior Creative Producer at Teesside University’s innovative TUCan Studio, said: “It has been a real pleasure to work with the local community and see their ideas shape this project.
"Getting our students involved was a huge part of that, giving them hands on experience and a chance to contribute to something meaningful in their own town.
“Our team put a lot of care and effort into bringing this installation to life, and we truly hope the community enjoys it and feels a sense of pride when they experience it.”
Middlesbrough Museums Manager JR Bowes said: “This installation isn't just about looking at history, it’s about being inside it.
“By utilising the ‘empty’ space of our iconic dome, we’ve created a permanent fixture that celebrates our past while looking forward to our future.”
This project was made possible through vital funding and support received from The Space, Tees Valley Museums NPO, Middlesbrough Council, and Arts Council England.
Councillor Philippa Story, Middlesbrough Deputy Mayor and Executive member for Education & Culture, said: “What a creative and inspirational way to make exciting new use of this existing space.
“The Dorman Museum is already one of our most popular family attractions, and Bridging the Future has the potential to open it up to whole new audiences.
“It’s innovative ideas like this that keep people coming back, and why our museums are among the jewels in Teesside’s crown.”
Bridging the Future has been developed in partnership with Teesside University’s School of Computing, Engineering & Digital Technologies, giving students the opportunity to gain valuable work experience within the museum sector.
The content of the animations was developed by the Middlesbrough Museums team and Teesside University, with input from Whippet Up CIC, a local organisation that uses arts and creativity to improve wellbeing.
The project has been made possible due to funding provided by The Space and Arts Council England and Tees Valley Museums NPO.
• Bridging the Future is a permanent installation at the Dorman and is viewable during the museum’s regular opening hours of 10am to 4pm, Tuesdays to Sundays.
Entry to the museum is free of charge.
