Step into 19th Century Paris: A Revolutionary VR Experience Awaits!

Prepare to be transported back in time as a groundbreaking new virtual reality experience brings the charm of 19th-century Paris to life! Contrary to the isolation often associated with VR, this immersive journey encourages lively interactions with fellow art enthusiasts, rekindling the wonders of a bygone era in a unique and engaging way.

Collaboration and Inspiration

The creation of French startup Excurio, in partnership with the renowned Musée d'Orsay and fellow innovator Eclipso, “Tonight With The Impressionists, Paris 1874,” celebrates the 150th anniversary of the first Impressionist art exhibition. This spectacular VR adventure takes guests through the historic streets of Paris, into the heart of the landmark exhibition, and to key destinations steeped in the rich legacy of Impressionism.

Excurio's Grand Debut

Following successful launches in France and Atlanta, this awe-inspiring experience recently made its grand debut at the Eclipso Center in New York. With Eclipso providing a flexible venue for VR activities and Excurio crafting the innovative content, it promises to redefine how we connect with culture and history.

An Immersive Journey

At a recent press event, guests donned sleek VR headsets and stepped into an expansive, stark white room. This vast 11,000-square-foot space transformed into an enchanting array of settings—from bustling cafes to tranquil lakes, all designed to recreate the artistic atmosphere of that pivotal time in Paris's history.

Unique Approach to VR

Unlike other VR attractions, Excurio and Eclipso have chosen not to use elaborate physical sets or props. Instead, this allows for multiple simultaneous experiences in the same venue, though it can occasionally lead to amusingly awkward moments. Imagine trying to navigate an uphill virtual landscape while standing on a flat actual floor, or attempting to interact with virtual furniture marked by an ominous floating "X."

A Mesmerizing Experience

Despite these quirks, the experience is nothing short of mesmerizing. Imagine standing on a balcony with Claude Monet as he brings “Impression, Sunrise” to life, with strokes of color stretching far beyond the confines of the canvas. The stunning visuals make for unforgettable moments as you interact with renowned artists of the time, offering a truly immersive connection to their world.

Capacity and Organization

One of Excurio's highlights is the ability to support over 100 participants roaming freely while keeping the VR experience manageable and organized. The carefully crafted narrative guides attendees through the experience, with staggered entry times minimizing any chance of collision.

Navigating the Crowd

However, with so many people engaged in the experience, it can feel crowded at times, creating a slight element of stress as one dodges the virtual silhouettes of others. For new VR users, the experience could feel a bit lengthy at 45 minutes, potentially leading to eye strain or discomfort.

Final Thoughts

Nonetheless, “Tonight With The Impressionists” is an unmissable opportunity, especially for art lovers or anyone curious about the educational potential of virtual reality. Don’t miss your chance to walk through history, appreciate the genius of Impressionism, and explore the creative possibilities offered by this exciting technology. Embrace the art revolution—Paris awaits!