How can traditional Wunderkammer strategies be translated into designing a digital Wunderkammer for personal collections?

Abstract

This thesis explores the concept of the Wunderkammer and reimagines it within a digital framework. Originating in the 15th century, the Wunderkammer was a space for collecting and displaying artifacts and marvels, serving as a predecessor to the modern museum. It embodied a fusion of art and science, fostering exploration and contemplation.

Today, while the nature of collecting has evolved, the personal meaning and stories behind treasured objects remain paramount. This research aims to design and prototype a digital Wunderkammer that evokes the emotional and aesthetic engagement of its historical counterpart. By leveraging contemporary technological advancements, the project seeks to create an interface that inspires curiosity, emotional connection, and deeper user interaction with personal and shared objects. The digital Wunderkammer will offer a novel platform for curation, preservation, and interaction, blending the timeless appeal of the original with modern digital capabilities.