## Immersive Notre-Dame Exhibition Opens in Hong Kong, Showcasing Augmented Reality and Restoration Efforts
Hong Kong’s West Kowloon Cultural District (WestK) is hosting a groundbreaking exhibition: “Notre-Dame de Paris: The Augmented Exhibition.” This immersive experience, unveiled on December 7th, 2024, by L’Oréal Group in partnership with cultural curator Visionairs, opens to the public on December 8th – the same day the iconic Notre-Dame Cathedral reopens in Paris after its devastating 2019 fire. The exhibition marks a significant cultural event, seamlessly blending technology and heritage to offer visitors a journey through 860 years of history.
The grand opening ceremony was attended by a distinguished gathering of dignitaries, including representatives from the Institut Français, the Consulate General of France in Hong Kong and Macau, the Office of the European Union, the West Kowloon Cultural District Authority, InvestHK, and members of the Hong Kong and French business, art, and cultural communities. This diverse attendance underscores the international significance of the project and the collaborative spirit behind its creation.
At the heart of the exhibition lies L’Oréal’s commitment to Beauty Tech and its belief in technology’s power to enhance both beauty and cultural heritage. This sponsorship aligns perfectly with L’Oréal’s broader mission of “creating beauty that moves the world.” Beyond financial support, L’Oréal’s involvement demonstrates a proactive role in preserving and celebrating global cultural treasures. Their contribution extends beyond this exhibition; L’Oréal also donated to the restoration efforts of Notre-Dame following the fire.
Developed by French startup Histovery in collaboration with the public institution Rebuilding Notre-Dame de Paris, the exhibition leverages the innovative HistoPad™ tablet to deliver an unparalleled augmented reality (AR) experience. Visitors can explore key moments in Notre-Dame’s rich history, from Napoleon’s coronation to the intricate details of the cathedral’s breathtaking rose windows. The interactive experience allows for personal exploration and discovery, making the exhibition engaging for all ages.
Beyond simply showcasing the past, the exhibition also provides a fascinating glimpse into the ongoing restoration process, revealing the meticulous work undertaken to rebuild this beloved landmark. Visitors can discover the hidden secrets within the cathedral’s walls, gaining a deeper appreciation for its architectural marvels and historical significance.
Eva Yu, President and Managing Director, L’Oréal Hong Kong, emphasized the company’s dedication to beauty, creativity, and cultural heritage. She highlighted the exhibition as a testament to these values, providing a unique opportunity to experience the resilience and enduring beauty of Notre-Dame. Lydie Blandeau, CEO and co-founder of Visionairs, described the exhibition as the inaugural event for their new ArtTech space in WestK, showcasing their commitment to using immersive technology to bring history and culture to life.
Bruno de Sa Moreira, co-founder and CEO of Histovery, expressed gratitude to L’Oréal for making the exhibition possible and highlighted the honor of showcasing it at WestK, especially coinciding with Notre-Dame’s reopening. Christile Drulhe, Consul General of France in Hong Kong and Macau, praised the timely nature of the exhibition and commended the roles of L’Oréal, Visionairs, and Histovery in celebrating the restoration and resilience of Notre-Dame.
“Notre-Dame de Paris: The Augmented Exhibition” is not just an exhibition; it’s a testament to human resilience, technological innovation, and the enduring power of cultural heritage. This immersive experience is a must-see for anyone visiting Hong Kong, offering a unique opportunity to connect with one of the world’s most iconic and beloved landmarks.
