About the Creator
Lars Larson graduated from IUPUI with a Master's Degree in Media Arts & Science, with an emphasis on using data visualization to create virtual reality environments.
From a very young age, Lars has loved learning about science, history, and cultures. In elementary school his favorite television programs were Jacque Cousteau documentaries, "Connections" with James Burke, and "NOVA." As a youth he lived in the Philippines, where he learned a language and became comfortable in another culture.
Lars also loves the outdoors, having done a bit of backpacking, kayaking, and camping. He takes his camera on every trip. "I love being out and doing things, but for me, it's about the image. It's important to have good visual documentation," he says.
This project has allowed Lars to combine his interests in the outdoors, history, culture, photography, and visual media.
"I am excited to be able to combine so many of my interests into a project that is not only relevant, but beautiful. It has been a very interesting experience."
Lars lives in Avon, Indiana, with his wife and three children.
Exploring History with Virtual Reality
Before European settlement of North America, the American Heartland was home to a civilization which today we call the "Mississippian" culture. They built cities and villages characterized by large earthen mounds. Their city of Cahokia in Illinois rivaled the size of London in it's day.
One of the more prominent, smaller cities of this culture, and an important Indiana historical asset, is located on the Ohio River in Evansville. It is known as "Angel Mounds."
Because of the remoteness of the Angel Mounds site from most of the state of Indiana, it can be difficult to visit. Even when visiting the site, some people find it difficult to walk the 412-acre grounds. It would be beneficial to find a way to explore the site remotely.
Existing technology can be used to create a 3D Virtual Reality environment around which can be crafted an immersive, media-rich learning experience. In this way, one could not only explore Angel Mounds Historic Site, but also see it as it may have been in the 1400's when the people who built it lived there.
Target Audience
This project is for anyone who is interested in history and culture - those who would like to reach back and connect with the past.
It is for ages third grade to adult. It is meant for visitors to the State Museum and it's web site, as well as for school teachers to use in their Indiana History curriculum.
Try the Prototype
Click HERE to try a prototype of the project
Use the mouse to point in the direction of forward travel. Use the arrow keys or the A, S, W, & D keys to move left, backward, forward, or right, respectively.