Artistic Visualisation of Practical Information Using Augmented Reality

Augmented Reality (AR) is a novel visualisation technology that can be effectively used in a wide range of areas, from science to art and everyday life. This paper addresses the issue of developing AR applications that combine practical and artistic aspects of information visualisation. It includes both some theoretical consideration of the problem and an analysis of the AR installations by the author: "Plymouth Hoe and the Surrounding World", "Scope" and "Plymouth Blitz - 70 years on". The paper concludes that, though the use of Augmented Reality as a new visual medium for solving the dilemma of practical vs. artistic information visualisation still remains a purely creative task in most cases, there are some rational elements that can facilitate an effective implementation.