The Workers were commissioned by the National Gallery to design and develop Room 1 of NG Stories, which we like to refer to as The People Room.
The People Room offers a magical, people-led experience, celebrating the individuals who have made the gallery what it is today, creating a deep, emotional connection between visitors and the gallery’s rich history.
The visitors’ silhouettes interact naturally with the displays alongside gallery conservators, framers, curators, and other key contributors to the gallery’s history.
This metaphorical mirror creates a sense of the visitors’ presence in the gallery, highlighting that NG Stories celebrates everyone, including the visitors who have made the gallery what it is today.
“We come to the Gallery to be moved and inspired by paintings. The collection belongs to all of us.”
To deepen the sensory experience, the People Room incorporates ambient soundscapes designed by Nick Ryan. The soundscapes, ranging from the quiet footsteps of visitors to the hum of art restorers, create an atmospheric layer that draws visitors deeper into the Gallery’s story.
Project & client
NG Stories, Making a National Gallery
The National Gallery, UK
Role:
Creative Concept, Narrative Development, Creative Strategy, User research and testing, Spatial Design, UX & UI Design, Prototyping, Software Development, On-site installation.
Acknowledgements, Room 1:
Experience design lead: The Workers
Installation design: de Pass Montgomery
Sound design: Nick Ryan Studio
Creative consultant with The Workers: Anna Gerber
Hardware installation: Blue Elephant UK
Exhibition installation: Sam Forster Associates
Lighting design: DHA Designs
Thank you to all Gallery staff and members of the public who contributed to the development of this experience.