CyArk's Story

How we unlock the power of 3D technology to make the world’s cultural heritage accessible to new audiences and future generations

CyArk

CyArk

CyArk field capture specialist Avidan Fernandez trains students in photogrammetry. (2019-09) by CyArkCyArk

Who we are

CyArk is a nonprofit organization based in the San Francisco Bay area that was founded over 20 years ago. 

We pioneered the application of 3D recording technologies to preserve and celebrate cultural heritage and have worked with local partners at over 300 sites in more than 50 countries. 

Tapestry Home Page by CyArkCyArk

What we do

We connect new audiences to heritage through place-based web, mobile and immersive experiences that inspire reflection, conversation, and imagination. Explore the stories online via Tapestry!

Laser scanning Gateway of India (2018) by CyArkCyArk

Supporting Preservation

We have developed a robust methodology for creating photorealistic and accurate 3D models. These models inform heritage management strategies and serve as a resource for education, research, and virtual access.

CyArk works with community members in Patan, Nepal (2022) by CyArkCyArk

Expanding Access to Heritage

Our work seeks to expand access to cultural heritage through place-based storytelling  experiences, creating new opportunities for audiences to connect with places and their stories.

CyArk teaching 3D documentation in Trinidad (2025) by CyArkCyArk

Training the Cultural Heritage Sector

We conduct virtual and in-person workshops to build both hard and soft skills that support the local management and protection of cultural heritage and have broad applicability and value in numerous career paths.

LiDAR scanning in Trinidad and Tobago (2025) by CyArkCyArk

Our 20 Year Journey

As the underlying technology for capturing 3D data of cultural heritage has rapidly evolved over the last 20 years, so has our mission. 

Listen to our founder Ben Kacyra, CEO John Ristevski and VP Elizabeth Lee as they reflect on the origin and evolution of CyArk over the years.

Illuminated Caves of the Boat Tour (2025) by CyArkCyArk

Want to know more?

To keep up with our progress sign up for our monthly newsletter. To support our continued efforts to document sites and continue to open our archive donate to our cause.

Credits: All media
The story featured may in some cases have been created by an independent third party and may not always represent the views of the institutions, listed below, who have supplied the content.
Explore more

Interested in Design?

Get updates with your personalized Culture Weekly

You are all set!

Your first Culture Weekly will arrive this week.

Home
Discover
Play
Nearby
Favorites