KeMCoM project

In this article, the spotlight will be on student staff members, collectively called the KeMCoM project, highlighting their role at KeMCo, and the ways in which they have led to the mutual growth and enrichment of KeMCo.

KeMCoM?

The name KeMCoM is a combination of KeMCo and “M” for Members, which means that the students are the “Members of KeMCo.” The letter “M” is also an acronym for Material, Make, and Magical—meaning that we aim to create a variety of tangible and intangible works through this project.
Idea: Kaho Kobayashi (First generation member of KeMCoM)

The KeMCoM project

The KeMCoM Project represents a dynamic collective of undergraduate and graduate students working out of the KeMCo StudI/O. Drawing students from various disciplines and campuses, this initiative fosters a space where they can share their knowledge, experiences, and skills thorough developing cross-media creative projects. Instead of focusing solely on creating finished products, students embrace a fluid process of building prototypes, welcoming feedback, and iterating based on new ideas.

By making use of the fabrication facilities onsite, the students of the KeMCoM project are co-producing the exhibitions together with the faculty, as well as other stakeholders, to facilitate public participation in cultural/historical activities. The activities under this project are diverse, spanning the creation of unique digital content, like AR filters inspired by exhibitions, projection mapping, to hands-on crafting. All activities infuse KeMCo with fresh perspectives, ​​ensuring that KeMCo resonates with both traditional museum-goers and the digital generation.

Case studies

In order to make the exhibition and other educational/research activities of KeMCo accessible to a broader public, the students make cross-media creative works in alignment with preserving and presenting the collections. For example:

Kawaii contents

The “Kawaii” contents offer a delightful fusion of traditional Japanese aesthetics with modern (digital) fasion. These “cute” creations, shared on platforms like Instagram with AR filters and various social media posts, captivate audiences worldwide, showcasing a blend of culture and modernity.

3D representations

3D Representations, such as 3D object models and 3D virtual exhibitions, provide a novel approach to experience exhibition objects within both physical/digital environments. These digital replicas breathe life into artifacts, allowing users to explore them in detail and from multiple angles, enhancing accessibility and interactivity for audiences.

Aesthetic visualizations

Provides a photogenic and interactive experience through projection mapping and digital media, seamlessly blending historical context with modern technology. This synthesis not only attracts a younger demographic but also redefines the traditional museum visit, transforming it into a multi-sensory journey through time and artistry.

Through adapting student-led “peer learning” and the concept of “creative learning,” students play a pivotal role in enhancing KeMCo’s public engagement. Their involvement ensures that KeMCo remains relevant, accessible, and engaging to audiences of all ages. Through the KeMCoM project, students get an opportunity to apply academic knowledge in practical settings, making both their learning experience and KeMCo’s exhibits richer and more interactive.