North Houston District celebrates innovative Augmented Reality mural, Spreading Knowledge, at Harris County’s Aldine Branch Library
The North Houston District invites the public to experience the new Augmented Reality feature of Spreading Knowledge, an over-sized mural by Houston artist Dual which brightens up Harris County’s Aldine Branch Library. The installation is the first in the North Houston District’s new public art program, being planned and produced by UP Art Studio, a local civic art firm. The District successfully applied for an AARP Community Challenge Grant to fund the project and create their A/ R vision; AARP works to make public places more welcoming and walkable for seniors and people of all ages and abilities.
With a smartphone in hand, anyone can experience the “augmented reality” magic of Houston’s first commissioned public art AR mural. An explanation of the mural and a demonstration of the AR feature will be part of the event. The donor appreciation plaque will also be installed.
North Houston District officials, along with invited librarians and library representatives, AARP representatives and members of the community were on hand at the dedication Nov. 16. The original mural imagery was created by Dual. The Augmented Reality component was developed separately by Dream Syndicate, a Philadelphia firm that specializes in AR projects and has national AR mural experience.
The Augmented Reality Mural is on the side of the building at the Harris County Aldine Branch Library, 11331 Airline Drive, Houston, TX 77037.