Designing data interaction in exhibitions contexts

Nowadays, the primary purpose of information representation is to support users in understanding complex phenomena. Avoiding the 'black hole between data and knowledge" means research tools and methods that help people experience and benefit from this data. Through the analysis of case studies, the contribution aims to provide an overview of existing data visualization and physicalization techniques that enable participatory processes with users. This contribution focuses on interactive data visualizations, particularly on installations in museums, exhibitions or events that involve the user in an active and participatory way. These types of activities offer a simple but effective way to make complex data understandable. It will explore processes of collaborative creation of input from visitors, processes of direct interaction of the public with data that are not easily accessible by traditional methods, and finally, some visualizations that, through this powerful representational medium, promote renewed needs for engagement.