The idea of virtual reality (VR) or augmented reality (AR) becoming in itself an artform has been growing as in recent years. What we have also seen an increase in both technologies being used as a way to discover, rediscover or celebrate the works of more traditional artists and learn more about them.
Late last year we looked at one experience that allowed users to travel back in time and ‘meet’ the Dutch Master, Rembrandt. The studio of Johannes Vermeer was recreated in VR as a project early on in 2014. The Museum of Contemporary Art brought Kerry James Marshall’s paintings to life with an app last year too. While in Belgium an experience was created based on the life and works of René Magritte which took place inside a giant bowler hat. Though perhaps the most familiar for VR users is award winning experience The Night Cafe, which is a virtual tribute to the works and distinct style of Vincent Van Gogh.
The latest arts centre to embrace immersive technology is in Vienna where a new AR experience has been created that brings to life early twentieth century masterpiece The Tree of Life. Created by Austrian symbolist painter Gustav Klimt, the original work hangs even now in Vienna’s Museum of Applied Arts. However, to mark the 100th anniversary of his death in February 1918, Boston-based technology company Cuseum has worked to create a new app which allows enthusiasts to view Klimt’s artwork like never before.
Using Apple’s ARKit, Cuseum’s app will be debuted today at the Pioneers Festival in Vienna as part of the festivities.
“The art of Gustav Klimt, like that of the Viennese modernists of early 1900s, embodies a sense of innovation, distinction, and freedom,” said Brendan Ciecko, CEO & Founder of Cuseum. “We’re excited to present a new digital lens that immerses viewers in this iconic style.”
Christoph Thun-Hohenstein, Director at MAK, the Austrian Museum of Applied Arts / Contemporary Art, added: “Kike hardly any other institution the MAK encourages cutting-edge ways of engaging with artistic positions through technology. The MAK does not only want to reflect the process of innovation, but also to actively shape it. For a museum, it is a unique opportunity to bring different levels of experience closer to a multi-layered audience, to stimulate curiosity about new technologies and to promote an interactive discussion.”
VRFocus will have more on AR and VR’s use in the world of the visual arts very soon.
via Mint VR