What is a digital twin—and could it benefit your exhibition?

Over recent years, interest has grown in the idea of making exhibitions accessible online. One approach to this is something called a digital twin—a detailed, virtual representation of a physical exhibition that people can explore remotely. As someone who creates these for galleries and museums, I’d like to explain what a digital twin is, how it works, and what it might offer.

What is a digital twin?

A digital twin of an exhibition is a virtual model that replicates a real-world gallery space. It is created using tools such as 3D scanning, panoramic photography, and digital modelling. The resulting space can be navigated on a screen in a way that feels similar to walking through the physical exhibition. Some digital twins are compatible with devices like VR headsets or mobile phones using AR (Augmented Reality), but this isn’t a requirement—most can be viewed on a standard computer or tablet.

Why use one?

There are a few reasons why cultural institutions have chosen to explore digital twins. One is access: a digital twin allows people to view an exhibition even if they can’t attend in person, whether due to distance, health, cost, or other reasons. Another reason is flexibility. A virtual visitor can move through a digital exhibition at their own pace, revisit sections, and—depending on how it’s built—interact with supplementary content such as text, images, videos, or audio commentary.

In some cases, organisations use digital twins for educational outreach, documentation, or to share exhibitions with colleagues or partners elsewhere.

What can be included?

A digital twin can incorporate a range of materials beyond the visual display. These might include:

• Curatorial text and object labels

• Audio guides or voiceovers

• Links to catalogues or publications

• Archival media (photographs, films, interviews)

• Accessibility tools such as subtitles, screen reader support, or keyboard navigation
  

These elements are added in consultation with the institution and tailored to suit the intended audience.

What a digital twin is not

A digital twin is not a replacement for the physical exhibition. Nor is it a guaranteed method to increase visitor numbers or engagement. It’s one possible tool among many, and whether it’s useful will depend on your goals, your audience, and your resources.

It’s also worth noting that while the technology has become more affordable and accessible in recent years, it does still require time, planning, and collaboration between the content team and the digital production team.

Where to begin

If you’re considering whether a digital twin might be useful for your gallery, museum, or exhibition, it can help to look at examples from other institutions. Some are elaborate, others are simple and functional. The approach can vary widely depending on size, budget, and purpose.

We’d be happy to provide examples or talk through what’s involved—without any obligation or pressure. The aim is to help you decide whether this is something worth exploring further, and if so, how best to approach it.

Interested in learning more?

If you’d like to see what a digital twin looks like or ask questions about the process, feel free to get in touch. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer—but there are options worth considering.