Virtual Reality Exhibit Debuts in Stonington
L to R: Sam Mateosian, co-founder of the Yarn Corporation, Marydale Abernathy, VP of Media and Communications at the Island Institute, Patrick Shepard, Fisheries and Seafood Associate and Paul Anderson, Executive Director, at Maine Center for Coastal Fisheries cut the ribbon, welcoming visitors to the new exhibit.
STONINGTON, ME – Maine Center for Coastal Fisheries, a 15-year old nonprofit that works to secure a sustainable future for fishing and fishing communities, has launched a new virtual reality exhibit as part of Discovery Wharf, their marine education center. Discovery Wharf is located at 13 Atlantic Avenue, on the working waterfront in Stonington, Maine.
The first member of the public, Barbara Whitman of Stonington, tries the virtual reality exhibit on May 30, 2018.
Utilizing cutting-edge technology, visitors and residents can now experience virtual reality through a headset, which instantly transports them to another place and time. They’re able to explore coastal communities, set in real locations, with the people and businesses that make Maine unique. The virtual stories include an exploration of Islesford Boatworks, fishing aboard a lobster boat out of Friendship Harbor, kayaking through Maine waters, flying in a LifeFlight helicopter, and more.
The exhibit was made possible by the Island Institute, who created the virtual reality experience in 2016, in partnership with The Yarn Corporation and Big Room Studios. “It took years of work and a great number of partners to get this exhibit to Stonington,” according to Patrick Shepard of Maine Center for Coastal Fisheries. “We’re excited to help bring our coastal communities to life.”
Discovery Wharf is a free attraction for the Stonington community and its visitors. Last year, Discovery Wharf welcomed over 7,000 visitors from across the world. Exhibits include a touch tank, where visitors can hold live marine creatures, as well as interactive experiences, which teach the public about Maine’s fisheries. The recently added virtual reality exhibit, which made its debut on May 30, 2018, is expected to attract even more visitors this summer. Discovery Wharf is open to the public through Columbus Day weekend.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
For more information, contact:
Caroline Goddard
Communications Director, Maine Center for Coastal Fisheries
Email: cgoddard@coastalfisheries.org
Phone: (207) 367-2708
Website: www.coastalfisheries.org
Marydale Abernathy
VP of Media and Communications, the Island Institute
Email: mabernathy@islandinstitute.org
Phone: (207) 594-9209
Website: www.islandinstitute.org