The other day, I visited an aviation museum. After a long period of Covid-induced self-restraint, I finally made a visit to the place I found on the internet during the coronavirus pandemic. Although the museum had been closed to the public, I maintained my interest in it and kept collecting related information. I started a tour of the museum with plenty of information I had accumulated over the past three years.

As I followed the course of exhibits, I came to realize something characteristic of my viewing style. I found myself checking if the information I gathered in advance was working correctly. That was an enjoyable experience. But I also felt this way of viewing prevented me from entering into satisfactory relationships with the exhibited objects. As if to compensate for the lack of satisfaction, I decided to make the second round of viewing the same objects. As I expected, I was able to perceive the exhibits from a different perspective. I noticed the details of each object including their elaborate designs as well as smears and damaged parts of them. Watching in detail, I felt as if I could sense the presence of people working on these products. I was convinced that good products can make people feel as if they are having conversations with those inanimate objects.

During my first tour, I relied on the information I collected in advance, which I enjoyed as a process of honing my knowledge. However, the second tour left a different impression on me as it required more sensitivity in viewing the objects.

For many years, I have visited many museums. On each occasion, I had conversations with exhibited objects even without realizing it. The absence of such activities forced by the unprecedented Covid-related restrictions made me reaffirm the importance of these experiences.

Takeshi Umemoto

Digital Experience Design Dept.

Unit Leader