Virtual Reality Tours of Design Exhibitions and Art Galleries: An Exploratory Experience Assessment in Nigeria

Abstract

To aid sustainability in various sectors including art and design, there have been a growing adoption of various technologies. The integration of Virtual Reality technology into design and art exhibitions and galleries has revolutionised the way audiences engage with designs and other innovative or creative works. This preliminary study explores the satisfaction levels of Nigerian art and design enthusiasts who have experienced VR art galleries and design exhibitions. Utilising a quantitative approach, data were collected from participants through structured questionnaires. Findings reveal a spectrum of satisfaction levels influenced by factors such as prior familiarity with VR technology and the immersive quality of the virtual exhibitions and gallery tours, despite the existing preference for in-person interactions with people, art and designs. The findings reveal that VR possess the potential to enhance design and art appreciation, but points to factors such as usability, technical reliability, and the quality of immersive experiences as core areas for improvement (in the Nigerian context), requiring the inputs of professionals such as Industrial Designers within the VR design sphere. Measures such as the adoption of the hybrid exhibition models, integration of government and private sector involvement, and enhancement of VR quality and interface designs were recommended, with an emphasis on significant increase in sample size for further studies.