Now Open! This new exhibit greets visitors disembarking the ferry on Alcatraz Island, one of America’s most popular tourist attractions. The model is touch responsive, so that any visitor, including those who are blind or have low vision, can fully participate in learning about this historic place. As they explore the model, they hear Ranger John identify and contextualize any part they touch with one finger for one second. This multisensory exhibit was created in collaboration with National Park Service, and the Center for Inclusive Design and Environmental Access in the School of Architecture and Planning, University at Buffalo.

Specifications

• Buildings 3D printed in steel.

• Water and island cast in resin from 3D printed mold.

• Python program running on Rasperry Pi computer controls the exhibit.

• Touch sensors detect finger touches on the metal buildings and ferry.

• Visuals and captions appear on a wall mounted video screen above the exhibit counter.