Google Cultural Institute: Digital Tools for Cultural Heritage

Luisella Mazza, an Italian Googler since 2005, discusses Google's initiatives for cultural heritage. The Google Art Project, launched in 2011 with 17 partner museums including the Uffizi, evolved into Google Arts & Culture (GAC). GAC now partners with over 1,500 institutions from 70+ countries, offering 6 million images and 9,000 digital exhibitions. Tools include Art Camera for gigapixel imaging, 360-degree videos, and VR via Google Cardboard. Italy leads in European partners with over 100 institutions. Recent projects include digitizing 170 works at Galleria Nazionale di Roma and a residency with artist Paco Cao using Tilt Brush. Collaborations extend to Rijksmuseum (300,000 works), Natural History Museum London (300,000 scientific images), and immersive experiences like Paris Opera ballet and Palio di Siena. GAC's Cultural Institute Lab fosters tech-creative communities. Mazza cites Neil MacGregor's 'A History of the World in 100 Objects' as inspirational.