Overview
In 2026, Phnom Penh hosted the Solarpunk 2.0 Exhibition, bringing together artists, researchers, and creatives to imagine a more sustainable and community-driven future through art and technology.
Unlike traditional exhibitions, this experience went beyond static displays.
Mekongverse partnered with Smiling Creatives to introduce an AR Mirror installation, turning digital artworks into interactive, real-time experiences.
Objective
The exhibition aimed to:
- Create deeper engagement beyond passive viewing
- Translate futuristic and solarpunk concepts into immersive interaction
- Attract a younger, digitally-native audience
Our role was simple:
Turn artistic imagination into something people can experience.
Solution
AR Mirror Interactive Experience
We implemented an AR Mirror installation that allows visitors to see themselves enhanced with digital artworks in real time.
The experience runs on a simple setup:
- Screen + webcam
- Real-time body & face tracking
- Integrated 3D assets
No complex hardware. Just seamless interaction.
Key Experience: AR Character Transformation
One of the standout features was a real-time AR face filter, designed as a futuristic myth-inspired character.
Visual Highlights:
- Golden cyberpunk-style monkey mask
- Cultural ornamentation blended with futuristic design
- Glowing animated eyes
- Precise face tracking in real time
This created a powerful moment:
Visitors didn’t just observe the artwork — they became it.
Collaboration
This project was a combination of art and technology working together:
- Smiling Creatives
Designed and developed the 3D character and visual assets - Mekongverse
Brought the assets into life through AR Mirror with real-time interaction
According to exhibition coverage, the installation allowed visitors to interact with digital visuals layered onto their reflections, blending physical and digital art seamlessly.
Experience Impact
1. From Viewer to Participant
Visitors were no longer just looking at art — they were inside it
2. Instant Engagement
No instructions needed. Just stand, and the experience begins
3. High Visual Attraction
The bold AR character naturally drew attention in the space
4. Shareable Moments
Perfect for photos and videos, driving organic social sharing
5. Lightweight Setup
Powered by webcam + screen, enabling easy deployment
Why It Matters
The Solarpunk movement focuses on hopeful, sustainable futures shaped by creativity and community.
AR plays a critical role in this vision.
Instead of explaining ideas, it allows people to experience them directly.
This project shows how:
- Art becomes more immersive
- Technology becomes more human
- Experiences become more memorable
Outcome
- Increased visitor engagement and interaction time
- Strong visual presence within the exhibition
- Enhanced storytelling through immersive technology
- Elevated perception of the exhibition as innovative
Key Takeaway
The future of exhibitions is not something you look at.
It’s something you step into.
About Mekongverse
Mekongverse is an experiential technology company specializing in:
- AR Mirror for on-ground activations, events, and exhibitions
- WebAR for digital campaigns
We help brands and creators:
- Attract attention
- Create immersive experiences
- Turn moments into engagement
Call to Action
Planning an exhibition, event, or brand activation?
We can turn your creative assets into interactive AR experiences —
ready to deploy in days.
