Preserving Memories of Contemporary Witnesses Using Volumetric Video

Volumetric Video is a novel technology that enables the creation of dynamic 3D models of persons, which can then be integrated in any 3D environment. In contrast to classical character animation, volumetric video is authentic and much more realistic and therefore ideal for the transfer of emotions, facial expressions and gestures, which is highly relevant in the context of preservation of contemporary witnesses and survivors of the Holocaust. Fraunhofer Heinrich-Hertz-Institute (HHI) is working on two projects in this cultural heritage context. In a recent project between UFA and Fraunhofer HHI, a VR documentary about the last German survivor of the Holocaust Ernst Grube has been produced. A second project started in collaboration with the University Munich, faculty of languages and literature and Geschwister-Scholl-institute for political science, creating a concept for a VR experience together with Dr. Eva Umlauf, the youngest Jewish survivor in the concentration camp in Auschwitz. This paper presents key aspects of volumetric video and details about both projects including a discussion about the user perspective in such a VR experience.