‘Memory Archive’: 360-degree videos for immersion and reminiscence

‘Memory Archive’ is a People’s Collection Wales initiative, led by the Royal Commission. It is a curated account, aimed at facilitating reminiscence work with people living with dementia. Collections are divided into relevant themes and decades (within living memory), based on feedback received from healthcare professionals. You can find us via www.peoplescollection.wales/users/29941 or search for ‘Memory Archive’ and filter on ‘Collections’. (For a list of other free resources, filter on ‘Stories’ instead.)

One of the aims of the Memory Archive is to provide a one-stop shop – or, at least, a starting point – of free archive materials suitable for reminiscence work. To achieve this, we work together with the other People’s Collection partners (the National Library of Wales and Amgueddfa Cymru – National Museum Wales) and others.

We recently collaborated with Atgofion Melys (‘Sweet Memories’) – a collective of individuals based in north Wales with a passion for both tech and helping people in our communities – to publish a small selection of their 360-degree videos onto the People’s Collection website. These videos were specifically created for use in the health and well-being sector and are, therefore, a great addition to the Memory Archive.

For instance, the ‘Memory Archive – Nature’ collection offers a handful of landscapes, allowing you to explore some of the most beautiful waterfalls, rivers and seascapes in Wales. 360-degree videos allow you to interact with and experience their content, instead of just sitting back and watching. They offer an immersive view in all directions that lets you choose where to look. While 360-degree video doesn’t require a viewing accessory, you can watch with an accessory like Google cardboard.

But there are not only landscapes. For those with an interest in agriculture, please visit the ‘Farming’ collection to find yourself immersed in a livestock auction at Dolgellau Market or to imagine yourself making bales with a John Deere baler.

Who remembers Ryan and Ronnie? Visit either the Living Rooms or TV and Radio collection to go back in time and watch the entertainers on the television in a 1980s Rhyd-y-Car terrace house.

Or, if you prefer traditional Welsh folk songs, why not join in singing ‘Moliannwn’ or ‘Hen Ferchetan’ in the vestry of the Trinity Chapel, Pwllheli, via the Music and Dancehalls collection?

We hope these resources spark memories and prompt discussions. We’d love to hear from you if they do – please leave a reply below!

13/04/2020