How might young people spend less time scrolling and more time engaging with art and heritage?

Tatton Park thinks it may have an answer as it bucks the trend turning screen time into cultural discovery.

For years, parents, teachers and commentators have been telling teenagers to spend less time interacting with technology. But this summer, Tatton Park is taking a different view. As part of its groundbreaking new exhibition, Beyond the View: Canaletto, the historic Cheshire estate is actively encouraging young people to engage with technology and use screens as a gateway to discover heritage, art and history.

The exhibition challenges the assumption that technology and culture sit at opposite ends of the spectrum. Instead, Tatton Park is demonstrating how digital tools can help a new generation connect with one of history's most celebrated artists in ways that feel relevant, interactive and engaging. Through immersive floor projections, interactive touchscreens, Metahuman avatars, projection mapping and digital story maps, visitors are encouraged to explore, discover and interact with heritage in ways that would have been unimaginable just a generation ago, revealing new stories and connections at every turn.

While concerns around screen time continue to dominate headlines, Tatton Park believes the conversation needs more nuance.

"Digital technologies are transforming the way people access information, learn and connect with the world around them," says Carole Hyde, General Manager of Tatton Park. "When used thoughtfully, they can enhance cultural experiences and make heritage more accessible and engaging for new audiences. For a generation that increasingly interacts with the world through digital platforms, technology can provide a valuable bridge to art, history and culture. Through Beyond the View: Canaletto, we hope to inspire young people to explore the stories, places and people that have shaped our shared heritage."

Could this approach inspire a different way of seeing and interpreting the collections and stories they hold?

A Digital Map of 18th century Venice

One example of this reinterpretation is the splendid reproduction of Ludovico Ughi’s seminal 1729 map of Venice, acquired by Samuel Hill, on display for the first time.  This untouched treasure, which is in pristine condition, has never been fully assembled. For this exhibition, the map has been digitally scanned by Esri UK, global leaders in geographic information system (GIS) software, location intelligence, and mapping, and will be unveiled in digital form as a complete map for the first time.

See Me Appear - An immersive artwork by Studio Peut-Porter

In a further innovative experience, Tatton Park's historic residents are brought to life through virtual performance capture, augmented reality and immersive soundscapes, sharing imagined stories inspired by Samuel Egerton's relatives, Beatrix, Hester and Elizabeth. The experience combines digital narratives with handcrafted artefacts, offering a fresh perspective on history by amplifying female voices often overlooked.

Beyond the View: Canaletto is taking place at Tatton Park until 1 November. For more information and to book tickets visit tattonpark.org.uk