Craig Stevens

This research investigated how 3D digitization, photogrammetry, and Virtual Reality (VR) can expand interpretive agency for Liberian source communities whose material culture is held in U.S. institutions. Through multi-instutional 3D digitization and the development of bespoke VR experiences with objects from Lofa, Nimba, and Grand Bassa counties, the project enabled elders, town chiefs, and community historians to virtually handle digitized vessels, masks, and ceremonial objects and record culturally grounded object interpretations. At the request of the National Museum of Liberia, the project shifted away from archaeological fieldwork to a community-centered, technology-driven methodology focused on cross-border access and collaborative curation. Across 41 VR sessions in eight towns and villages, the research produced a multimodal archive of 3D models, VR recordings, and transcripts, which were returned to U.S. collections for evaluation. Early responses from U.S. collections stewards indicate strong interest in integrating these interpretations into cataloging and exhibition practices, demonstrating the potential of 3D and immersive media to support restorative, community-engaged material culture research.