International Museum Day: 5 of the most unique online experiences from around the globe

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The International Museum Day is observed annually on or around May 18 by museum lovers worldwide. Founded by the International Council of Museums, the annual observance is aimed at increasing awareness and cultural engagement in society. Functioning beyond an archive, museums of today are shaping public opinion through immersive educational experiences. The increasingly diverse narratives help curious minds understand the different historical contexts enabling a sensitised outlook.

Several renowned museums have opened their doors virtually, in an unprecedented manner, this past year to allow us a peek into their collections. On International Museum Day, we have handpicked five of the most interesting online experiences.

Immigration experience and perspectives

Housed in two restored tenement buildings in New York City, the ‘Tenement Museum' is offering guided virtual tours every week. These tours take you through the apartments which were once inhabited by immigrants during the 19^th and 20^th century giving a unique historical perspective that helps in understanding contemporary cultural identities. The tours offer an immersive experience through retelling stories of former residents and personal objects left behind by families. During a time when the migrant and refugee issues have become a key conversation, the museum serves as a reminder of the shared history and reiterates the importance of immigration.

Log onto https://www.tenement.org/virtual-experiences/

A museum of ideas, not objects

The ‘Museo de Amanha' (Museum of Tomorrow) is a one-of-a-kind science museum in Rio de Janeiro. The futuristic museum is showcasing online exhibitions that can be accessed via Google Arts and Culture. These 16 exhibits, on topics ranging from overconsumption and waste to mathematics, weave a narrative around our destructive actions of the present and its possible environmental and social impact. With sustainability at the core of its messaging, the objective is clear, to make us reflect and evaluate our choices as individuals and as a society. Architecture enthusiasts can also explore the museum's exquisite building by neo-futuristic architect Santiago Calatrava through the 360-degree street view feature.

Log onto https://artsandculture.google.com/partner/museu-do-amanh%%?hl=en

The Muslim female gaze

A part of the Global Fund for Women, the ‘International Museum of Women' is an online museum that is aimed at giving a platform to women around the world. The museum is showcasing a global exhibition featuring a collection of artwork and thought pieces from contemporary Muslim women on diverse topics such as faith, appearance, and power. The groundbreaking art on display comprises multiple mediums, from painting to photography, and lets us discover artists, activists, and thought leaders who are defining their own identities, are independent in thought, and shattering stereotypes.

Log onto https://exhibitions.globalfundforwomen.org/

Sistine Chapel without the crowds

If you are an art enthusiast, there can be no greater pleasure than viewing the Sistine Chapel. The ceiling of the Sistine Chapel painted by Michelangelo in the 16^th century is one of the greatest works of Western Art. The ‘Vatican Museum' is offering virtual tours of the Sistine Chapel, Raphael's Rooms, Profane Museum, Pio Clementino Museum, Pauline Halls, Niccoline Chapel, Sistine Halls, and the New Wing. As you rotate your mouse, you can take a walk around the historic rooms, and if you have your virtual reality gear, then you can enjoy an immersive experience. Gaze at the intricate ceilings or zoom in at the masterpieces that adorn the walls. It is surely the only way to view the Sistine Chapel without tourists toppling over each other.

Log onto https://www.museivaticani.va/content/museivaticani/en/collezioni/musei/tour-virtuali-elenco.html

Tour the galaxy

Although technically not a museum, the National Space Aeronautics Administration (NASA) offers some of the most exclusive and awe-inspiring virtual tours on the planet, even if the subject is beyond the planet. NASA has an enviable line-up of tours including tours of the Moon, International Space Station (ISS), and multiple operations, research, and flight centres including Robotics Operations Center and NASA's Armstrong Flight Research Center. Those seeking an immersive experience may opt for a 3D tour of the ISS or explore 360-degree visualisations of other planets.

Log onto https://www.nasa.gov/nasa-at-home-virtual-tours-and-augmented-reality/

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