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Digital culture takes centre stage at Coventry University's Festival of Social Sciences
Siân Hewitt, Coventry University Group Archives and Records Manager, next to a 1931 Lanchester 15/18 motorcar
University news / Research news
Monday 27 October 2025
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Midlands residents are invited to scan their treasures and help preserve cultural heritage at a one-off digital event led by Coventry University researchers.
Taking place at Fargo Village in Coventry on Tuesday, November 4, Creative 3D Digital and the Future of Income for Cultural Organisations and Independent Creatives is part of the Festival of Social Sciences (FoSS).
The event invites the public and local artists to bring culturally significant items for digital scanning and archiving, and to watch live demonstrations of 2D and 3D scanning featuring collections from Coventry University Archives, Culture Coventry and Art Riot Collective.
Overseen by Dr Ben Kyneswood and colleagues from the university’s Centre for Creative Economies and Institute for Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering, the initiative uses advanced digital tools to explore the stories behind personal objects - building a richer picture of the region’s diverse communities and histories.
At Coventry University, we’re exploring how scanning can support creativity, storytelling, and business growth, as part of the Arts and Humanities Research Council-funded CreaTech Frontiers project, which looks at how technology can drive innovation in the creative sector.
3D scanning isn’t just about preservation, it’s about unlocking new possibilities. From ancient artefacts to modern artworks, we can now digitally capture texture, colour and form in ways that were once only possible in engineering. This opens up exciting opportunities for artists and cultural organisations to share their work, create new pieces, and reach audiences in fresh, innovative ways.
Ultimately, it’s about creating opportunities for artists, businesses and communities.
Dr Ben Kyneswood, Associate Professor in Digital Heritage and Culture at Coventry University
Talks will feature museum consultant Linda Spurdle, digital heritage specialist Thomas Flynn, and Professor Annebella Pollen from the University of Brighton, who will explore themes around digital archives, 3D digitisation and cultural visibility.
Coventry University will also present rare items from its archives, including a 1931 Lanchester 15/18 motorcar - one of only 16 known to remain intact globally. Designed by Frederick Lanchester, the pioneer behind the first all-British four-wheel car and namesake of the university’s library, the vehicle will be digitally scanned alongside other historic artefacts.
Additional items include carved walking sticks by George Lanchester, a puppet by Waldo Lanchester, a painting by Peter Ball, and a piece linked to renowned actress Ellen Terry, who also lends her name to a university building.
I’m really excited for our archives to be part of this year’s festival. Digitisation offers a powerful solution to the archive paradox - balancing access with preservation.
It allows people to engage with rare and fragile items in new ways, whether for research, creativity or public enjoyment. Not everyone can visit in person, so providing remote access to high-quality digital versions is the next best thing.
We’re looking forward to showcasing the variety of our archives and helping people connect with Coventry’s rich heritage.
Siân Hewitt, Coventry University Group Archives and Records Manager
All FoSS events are free, open to all ages, and funded by the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC).
The event will run from 10am-5pm. To book a scanning slot, email Dr Ben Kyneswood at benjamin.kyneswood@coventry.ac.uk.
