Watermans have partnered with the European Union in a project to use immersive technology to help people interact with culture. 

Watermans are one of ten partners across seven European countries to be part of the Artcast4D project, which looks to develop an accessible open-source program based on the proven AAASeed real-time 2D/3D software. 

Artcasr4d has implemented four pilot schemes across Issy-les-Moulineaux, Hounslow, Valencia and Athens with different cultural and creative topics and experiences: Citizens Engagement, Art in Public Spaces, Innovation in Art and Experience, Wisdom Tourism, bringing together creative actors and industrial partners with civil society.  

Xavier Maître, leading the research study on the triggers for immersion in open spaces by Université Paris-Saclay said: "Advances in immersive technologies represent an important driver for the experience economy, enhancing breadth, depth and intensity of artistic performances and visitors' experiences in public areas and at arts and cultural institutions." 

Watermans are involved in the pilot for Art in Public Spaces, which is designed to test and demonstrate the capabilities & creative potential of Artcast4D by commissioning artists and designers to use the technology in producing their own new creative works. 

Daniel Schutze, founder of interactive installations partner MDLite said: "The project's innovation lies in its ability to create immersive environments in open spaces, with minimally intrusive projection technology, through the design of collective interactive applications for broad and varied audiences." 

Professor Alfredo Ronchi, scientific coordinator of the Artcast4D project and active in the interactive virtual reality field since the 1980s added: "What does the term 'immersion' mean? Does it mean 'emotionally involved' 'blurring reality with virtuality'?  

"There are different experiences that can be labelled 'immersive': reading a book, watching a movie, attending a concert or opera, experiencing wild nature, spiritual experiences and more.  

"The ability to feel 'immersed' differs from person to person."