Mirrorbox Access Guide

Information below informs you about accessing the Mirrorbox itself. If we are missing any information, you have any questions, or you would like this access guide as a PDF, please get in touch.

The Structure

The Mirrorbox is an interactive installation. All exterior surfaces are mirrored. This can affect depth perception and may feel disorienting. Please take care when entering and moving around inside.

Physical Access

The inside of the mirrored box is 1.5m² and is accessed via a door.

To enter, visitors must step over a low bar at the base of the doorway (approximately 10 cm heigh). The team are on hand to assist.

The Mirrorbox is placed on top of a hill overlooking houses and hills in the background. It is reflecting the surroundings. It is summer and the grass is dry. Two men are by the box. One is wearing a green shirt and shorts. He is holding the door open while another man in black jeans and a hooded jumper steps into the Mirrorbox.

Inside the Mirrorbox

All interior surfaces are slightly mirrored, visitors are able to see out. The surface can affect depth perception and may feel disorienting. Please take care when entering and moving around inside.

A tablet and headset are provided to listen to the message left for the location. The tablet is on an adjustable arm and the headset has adjustable volume.

A transcript of the recording can be viewed on the tablet.

Due to the size and structure of the box, mobility aids cannot fit inside. We initially designed the Mirrorbox to accommodate this but with its bigger size we had issues with its increased weight which made it impossible to carry to locations. A chair is available (with arms) which can be placed inside upon request for seated access.

A brightly striped perching stool with four legs and a small back rest. It has two chrome arms that provide a wide seat. It is in a room with grey walls and wooden floors

The enclosed space and reflections may be visually or emotionally intense for some visitors.

Support

The Mirrorbox always has two people from the project helping to manage access and are on-hand to support and help visitors access the experience. The team helping with the Mirrorbox will be wearing purple T-shirts so you can recognise them.

By their very nature, these messages recall special times and places often inaccessible to the sender. Some messages contain potentially distressing themes of grief and loss.

The material may not be suitable for children or for those who are emotionally vulnerable.

Emotional wellbeing

Please take your time, and step away if needed. You are welcome to speak with a member of staff if you would like support or a quieter space.

Our hope is to make this sensitive experience as inclusive as possible. Each Mirrorbox visit will help us develop and refine access options for visitors. If you have any questions, access requests, or need further information, please get in touch.