Art1st

Inspiration

We all are familiar with the experience of going to an art exhibition, where we seem surrounded by artwork that we don't quite understand and feel hesitant to ask about. This inspired us to create Art1st to provide an accessible and daily artistic experience for all people.

What it does

When the user opens the app each day, they are presented with three famous artworks, each with a concise, simple description. No jargon, no academic language, just one fresh perspective to inspire them to think and explore. They can react by liking it and tapping for more info. Or they can simply ignore it. Meanwhile, we collect data on their preferences and adjust the content we offer them. In a simple version of the algorithm we’ve already implemented, two of the three presented artworks will be from some of their preferred categories, and one from a random category, to keep it personalized but also fresh and surprising.

How we built it

We used Adobe XD to design and prototype the UI. We used Java to code the algorithm, and Android Studio to code the mobile application.

Challenges we ran into

One issue we considered was that of attracting people to try the app. We believe that schools are good place to start. Students are curious and willing to try new things, and Art1st could serve as an arts supplement in the many schools whose art programs are underfunded or nonexistent. Additionally, students could introduce their parents and other adult friends and family to create a wider audience for the app.

Accomplishments that we're proud of

We created an intelligent and effective UI design for Art1st, and we also created an algorithm that would enhance users' art experiences. We jumped into something we had very little experience in and were able to make something we're proud of.

What we learned

We learned the importance of teamwork and the benefits of working with people with a diversity of skill sets and backgrounds. We also learned the importance of reviewing each of our ideas critically, and addressing issues with practicality and scalability early on in the planning process.

What's next for Art1st

We also envision adding a social element, where people can interact with their friends, competing to level up by "collecting" paintings and earning experience points by visiting their “gallery” often, and reacting to the paintings. Leveling up also opens the door to new sets of paintings to explore in daily galleries.

In addition, our app has strong potential for commercialization for two reasons. Firstly, we can partner with art institutions. We can add value by pushing events that users might be interested in based on their preference and perhaps by sponsored by art institutions. Secondly, as we attract more users, the preference data we collected can be very valuable for art institutions and vendors in regards to what people like and what they are interested in.

Curating algorithm prototype: link

Android prototype: link

Built With

• adobe-xd
• android-studio
• java