This was an interesting article that was posted posing the question of whether or not arts organizations should be as concerned as they are about audience opinion. The idea of arts organizations following audiences as opposed to leading audiences is one that has become an issue as audiences start to dwindle at some organizations. There is no doubt that audiences need to feel connected to the organization that they are participating in. The question lays in how they feel connected and why. Adam Lerner head of MCA Denver suggested that organizations are misguided in their search for direction from audiences. He suggests that "the answers lie inside the organization, not outside." Posing the thought that museums need to look more carefully at themselves. This would lead to arts organization's interaction with audiences being about selling audiences more of what the organization offers and not re-thinking what the organization should offer as suggested by audience members. I think this is a very interesting way of looking at things, I'm not sure it is best for every arts organization and that specific organizations should thoroughly examine their mission before approaching audience interaction in this manner. Still, something to think about.
http://www.sloverlinett.com/blog/2012/march/good-research-isn-t-about-asking-audiences-what-they-want
Sunday, April 29, 2012
Saturday, April 28, 2012
The Ability to accept credit cards can open up so many more doors for organizations!
By: Jessica Teaford
My paychecks are directly deposited into my account every two weeks like clockwork. I would be lost without my debit card; I never carry cash on me. And there is nothing that I hate more than going places that only accepts cash because they do not have the capabilities to take credit cards. Organizations that do not take steps to modernize the way they can receive funds will slowly lose more and more patronage.
Eventbrite has made it incredibly easy for small organizations to have the ability to take credit card payments for on-site ticketing and merchandise. The only downside is that the app is only compatible with an iPad. This is an expensive investment for companies to make. However it will more than pay for itself not only when organizations don’t have to turn away patrons because of payment type. This is something that all small organizations should look into.
Friday, April 27, 2012
new ticketing initiative in the bronx.
http://www.technologyinthearts.org/2012/04/lesson-from-the-bronx/#more-4844
This Technology in the Arts blog post draws attention to the new free ticketing initiative underway at the Bronx Museum of the Arts. Thanks to a grant from the New York Community Trust, the museum is offering free admission to city residents and tourists alike for the next 15 months. There is hope, however, that this free ticketing program will draw attention to the museum's (and, in general, Art's) importance in the community and will inspire generous donations that will allow it to remain free indefinitely.
Museum director, Molly Block, was quoted as saying: "With our immediate community being the poorest per capita in the nation, and at a time when many are struggling to pay bills…we don’t want anyone to have to use (admission costs) as excuse not to visit us."
If museums in lower-income communities can receive funding to do this, it is a great way to draw attention to their important roles in their respective regions and to bring publicity. Initiatives like this one should go hand-in-hand with an extensive social media campaign.
This Technology in the Arts blog post draws attention to the new free ticketing initiative underway at the Bronx Museum of the Arts. Thanks to a grant from the New York Community Trust, the museum is offering free admission to city residents and tourists alike for the next 15 months. There is hope, however, that this free ticketing program will draw attention to the museum's (and, in general, Art's) importance in the community and will inspire generous donations that will allow it to remain free indefinitely.
Museum director, Molly Block, was quoted as saying: "With our immediate community being the poorest per capita in the nation, and at a time when many are struggling to pay bills…we don’t want anyone to have to use (admission costs) as excuse not to visit us."
If museums in lower-income communities can receive funding to do this, it is a great way to draw attention to their important roles in their respective regions and to bring publicity. Initiatives like this one should go hand-in-hand with an extensive social media campaign.
Data and Funding
We've spent a great deal of time this semester looking at database programs. Data is incredibly valuable - what is shows, what you can extract from it, and how you can use it to track your development. The conversation we've had around the gathering and using of data has, of course, focused on arts organizations. Another major user of data is funders. As Lisa Philp writes on Philantopic, "When funders want to do more than just make good grants, they often seek targets of opportunity -- places where their support could be especially influential, help develop a new direction or innovation, or align with others to accomplish more. Activities that accomplish these goals are what we mean by "scanning the landscape." Philp's post, "Scan 2.0: New GrantCraft Guide Helps Funders Scan in the Digital Age", discusses GrantCraft's guide Scanning the Landscape 2.0, which looks at how funders can take advantage of technology to gather, maintain, and analayze data (aka scan) to determine how to best make grants. The scope of the guide is about funding in general, but has information that arts funders can make use of. For organzitions, it may be worth a look as well: knowing how funders view data can help organizations not only understand the possibilities their data holds but how to read that data through a funding lens. A better understanding of the environment leads to better proposals, which in turn lead (hopefully) to increased funding. The GrantCraft guide is free but registration will be required.
Read Philp's blogpost at http://pndblog.typepad.com/pndblog/2012/04/new-grantcraft-guide-helps-funders-scan-in-the-digital-age.html
Guide available at http://www.grantcraft.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=Page.ViewPage&pageId=3680
-Adrienne
Thursday, April 26, 2012
The O
I just read a fascinating article about the MONA museum in Tasmania, Australia. They no longer have any wall labels or signs to guide visitors. Instead they have a mobile device to get all the information they need about the museum (maps, cafe hours, etc) as well as the art work. In addition, patrons can view the curatorial information in different styles; in a formal style or with personal comments by the museum's owner. The O also lets people interact with the art by leaving comments, sharing it on Facebook or Tweeting about it. Visitors can save the O tours and retrieve them in 3D the next day on the museum's website. 80% of the visitors to the museum who used the O stated that it enhanced their experience.
Not only is this device great for visitors, it is FANTASTIC for the staff! They can easily see what the visitors commented on the most, visited the most, liked the most, etc. This is the kind of technology that will bring younger people in, which is what museums and other arts organizations desperately need!
Not only is this device great for visitors, it is FANTASTIC for the staff! They can easily see what the visitors commented on the most, visited the most, liked the most, etc. This is the kind of technology that will bring younger people in, which is what museums and other arts organizations desperately need!
Wednesday, April 25, 2012
Do you know who your true audience is?
http://www.npr.org/blogs/pictureshow/2012/04/23/151201002/are-your-facebook-friends-really-your-friends
Tanja Hollander was curious about the relationship status of her 626 facebook friends. How many of these 626 "friends" were actual friends? Using the medium of photography, Hollander set on a quest to photograph every single friend she has.
What intrigues about this article is the wondering how arts organizations are able to gauge the level of involvement their facebook and twitter followers. Knowing everything there is to know about your followers would really allow organizations to gauge the best way to utilize the social media outlets to cater towards their loyal patrons, the inquisitive newbies and occasional participators. Even though there are different matrix options available to gauge your activity levels, this doesn't truly tell you who your followers are and how to most effectively reach out to them.
But how could the audience be gauged? Using a combination of different technologies that have been discussed and blogged about this semester could certainly help. WHen scanning tickets using the new eventbrite software, perhaps there could be one question asked, whose answer could be input with the push of a button. Or perhaps a quick questionnaire as part of the ticketing process could be incorporated. The more data an organization is able to capture, the more effective their distribution of information could be and the more engaged their patrons will be.
Tanja Hollander was curious about the relationship status of her 626 facebook friends. How many of these 626 "friends" were actual friends? Using the medium of photography, Hollander set on a quest to photograph every single friend she has.
What intrigues about this article is the wondering how arts organizations are able to gauge the level of involvement their facebook and twitter followers. Knowing everything there is to know about your followers would really allow organizations to gauge the best way to utilize the social media outlets to cater towards their loyal patrons, the inquisitive newbies and occasional participators. Even though there are different matrix options available to gauge your activity levels, this doesn't truly tell you who your followers are and how to most effectively reach out to them.
But how could the audience be gauged? Using a combination of different technologies that have been discussed and blogged about this semester could certainly help. WHen scanning tickets using the new eventbrite software, perhaps there could be one question asked, whose answer could be input with the push of a button. Or perhaps a quick questionnaire as part of the ticketing process could be incorporated. The more data an organization is able to capture, the more effective their distribution of information could be and the more engaged their patrons will be.
Tuesday, April 24, 2012
Arts Management, Arts Marketing, and the difference between physical and digital.
Being a full time student, I find myself often working on multiple projects, papers, and assignments at once. Today is one of those days. While traversing the internet for research, I come across some information that I feel is worth talking about.
I'm having to do research for a marketing plan, and I needed to find evidence of realistic prices for advertisement space in a newspaper. Would you like to know the prices? One column inch of space on a weekday costs $434. On a Sunday, it costs $613. How about a full page ad? $10,327 on a weekday. $12,748 on a Sunday.
You know what's interesting though? In just one page prior to these price listings in this report, The Washington Post gives some other helpful information: Daily Total Circulation: 562,108 people.
Total number of monthly readers who visit Washingtonpost.com: 17.5 million.
What this is saying to me, is that for art organizations who want to advertise in the local paper, they should think again. Why waste money on a dying form of information distribution, when you can market yourself so many times more effectively and efficiently via viral marketing?
One thing this class has taught me over the semester, is that there is no lack of software out there that can help arts organizations organize their patrons, and monetize properly from a good marketing strategy. Without a digital world for commerce to take place in, programs like Vendini, Tessitura, Ovation Tickets, and even Raiser's Edge, have no place in the future.
So perhaps if people stopped reading the newspaper, we'd be killing two birds with one stone: we'd stop killing trees, and we'd stop supporting an ineffective, outdated source of information distribution.
Just a thought.
http://www.washingtonpostads.com/sites/default/files/RC_SpecialIndustry2012.pdf
I'm having to do research for a marketing plan, and I needed to find evidence of realistic prices for advertisement space in a newspaper. Would you like to know the prices? One column inch of space on a weekday costs $434. On a Sunday, it costs $613. How about a full page ad? $10,327 on a weekday. $12,748 on a Sunday.
You know what's interesting though? In just one page prior to these price listings in this report, The Washington Post gives some other helpful information: Daily Total Circulation: 562,108 people.
Total number of monthly readers who visit Washingtonpost.com: 17.5 million.
What this is saying to me, is that for art organizations who want to advertise in the local paper, they should think again. Why waste money on a dying form of information distribution, when you can market yourself so many times more effectively and efficiently via viral marketing?
One thing this class has taught me over the semester, is that there is no lack of software out there that can help arts organizations organize their patrons, and monetize properly from a good marketing strategy. Without a digital world for commerce to take place in, programs like Vendini, Tessitura, Ovation Tickets, and even Raiser's Edge, have no place in the future.
So perhaps if people stopped reading the newspaper, we'd be killing two birds with one stone: we'd stop killing trees, and we'd stop supporting an ineffective, outdated source of information distribution.
Just a thought.
http://www.washingtonpostads.com/sites/default/files/RC_SpecialIndustry2012.pdf
Final Thoughts!
Arts organizations, performing and visual arts alike, exist in a period where technology has played a significant role in how arts managers run their individual organizations to best meet their mission and how audiences are choosing to support them. Thus, providing a competitive environment that challenges arts organizations’ abilities to remain relevant in their individual arts communities and the overall cultural spectrum. This semester we were introduced to several different types of software (i.e. Box Office; CRM; Fundraising; and Art Gallery) and companies that claim to provide creative tools (i.e. Multi-featured Software vs. One feature software; Cloud vs. Self-hosted; Security - PCI Compliance; etc.) that allow arts managers to tackle larger issues commonly found in arts organizations (i.e. quality programming, audience retention, marketing strategies, etc.). Technology should provide an arts organization advantage in meeting such issues head on if chosen properly. With that in mind, it is important for arts managers to really invest time and energy in including technology topics during their strategic planning. Such as choosing arts related software that best suits their functional needs realistically and sustains their organizational mission in both the long- and short-term.
Mobile Payments
http://www.cnn.com/2012/04/17/tech/mobile/mobile-payments-pew/index.html
What a relief it
has been to see the software we have had the opportunity to preview
incorporating mobile applications into their systems. We have mainly seen mobile applications being
used to facility ticket sales, so hopefully this can expand to merchandising,
parking, fundraising efforts, and more in the upcoming years! In this article, it states that studies have
shown 38% of smartphone users currently have made a purchase via the use of
their phone. The article goes on to
state that by 2020 “most” people will be using their smartphones to make
purchases. This gives our arts
organizations 8 years to fully develop and exploit various applications to stay
current and competitive in the world of technology. Arts organizations will have to be extra
diligent when working with application architects to ensure adequate
security. But, as this seems to be the
wave of the future, in eight years, perhaps we will have a more secure system
in place!
Monday, April 23, 2012
Art Students Developing Apps
Ashland companies seek art students for interns
I found this interesting article about a new goal for app development companies that involves recruiting art majors as interns. Open Door Networks and Project A are the companies responsible for creating the Art Authority app, which features about 50,000 pieces of art. Since the project is art related they are inviting students to apply and help build the database. Art students end up getting to work from both sides by helping build an app that is useful to the art world, but also developing skills in technology. Building apps is pretty lucrative work according to the article, so maybe this will be motivation for someone with deep roots in the art world to develop the next app that makes the lives of art organizations easier or becomes useful for art enthusiasts. Like I said before blending art and technology is a good idea. Both things are constantly changing and evolving, so why not see where that line crosses?
I found this interesting article about a new goal for app development companies that involves recruiting art majors as interns. Open Door Networks and Project A are the companies responsible for creating the Art Authority app, which features about 50,000 pieces of art. Since the project is art related they are inviting students to apply and help build the database. Art students end up getting to work from both sides by helping build an app that is useful to the art world, but also developing skills in technology. Building apps is pretty lucrative work according to the article, so maybe this will be motivation for someone with deep roots in the art world to develop the next app that makes the lives of art organizations easier or becomes useful for art enthusiasts. Like I said before blending art and technology is a good idea. Both things are constantly changing and evolving, so why not see where that line crosses?
Sunday, April 22, 2012
Facebook and Twitter Logos
http://www.technologyinthearts.org/2012/04/pianos-and-landmines-music-and-gestures-and-of-course-facebook-and-twitter-symbols/#more-4776
I was reading through this article and was caught by the last bullet point about the use of the facebook and twitter icons. The article states that even if a consumer is not using their laptop while watching tv, if they see they logo for facebook or twitter, they are a lot more likely to visit and "like" your site after seeing it on an ad. The article goes on to urge you to make sure you include the facebook and twitter logos, as well as links to your arts org's respective pages in every email blast you send. This is said to increase traffic flow to your sites by quite a lot.
I was reading through this article and was caught by the last bullet point about the use of the facebook and twitter icons. The article states that even if a consumer is not using their laptop while watching tv, if they see they logo for facebook or twitter, they are a lot more likely to visit and "like" your site after seeing it on an ad. The article goes on to urge you to make sure you include the facebook and twitter logos, as well as links to your arts org's respective pages in every email blast you send. This is said to increase traffic flow to your sites by quite a lot.
Thursday, April 19, 2012
Google Art Project
Google Art Project has created a lot of buzz since its launch in February 2011. This new online platform provides the public with high-resolution images of artwork from a variety of well known museums around the world. It is a truly and amazing educational tool that has utilized technology to its full potential. The project has recently expanded to include 151 institutions and visitors now may look at more than 32,000 works in a variety of media, from abstract oil paintings to jewelry, rock art, textiles, and ceramics.
Some people in the arts, according to blogs and online journal articles I have read, have shown negative feelings towards this service. However, I think it is an incredible marketing and educational technology tool and can benifit artistic institutions. With Google Art Project you can take a visual tour, view artwork, and be educated about the gallery and the art through means of video and audio. I do not in anyway think that this is a negative service and will effect museums membership and attendance numbers. I think that by having access to some of the greatest museums in the world, it will increase their membership and attendance numbers. Seeing all the the museum has to offer will want people to go and experience these museums in person.
Technology has provided a new way to exploring art in hopes to bring a new audience to their institution. Now you can visit Florence or Moscow, learn about Van Gogh and Rembrant in your pajamas while sipping a cup of coffee and enjoying the great artists of our past while sparking an idea to plan a trip to see such art in person. Technology increases our knowledge and is an incredible tool for nonprofits.
For more information:
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/04/12/arts/design/google-art-projects-expanded-offerings.html?pagewanted=2&_r=1&hp
Some people in the arts, according to blogs and online journal articles I have read, have shown negative feelings towards this service. However, I think it is an incredible marketing and educational technology tool and can benifit artistic institutions. With Google Art Project you can take a visual tour, view artwork, and be educated about the gallery and the art through means of video and audio. I do not in anyway think that this is a negative service and will effect museums membership and attendance numbers. I think that by having access to some of the greatest museums in the world, it will increase their membership and attendance numbers. Seeing all the the museum has to offer will want people to go and experience these museums in person.
Technology has provided a new way to exploring art in hopes to bring a new audience to their institution. Now you can visit Florence or Moscow, learn about Van Gogh and Rembrant in your pajamas while sipping a cup of coffee and enjoying the great artists of our past while sparking an idea to plan a trip to see such art in person. Technology increases our knowledge and is an incredible tool for nonprofits.
For more information:
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/04/12/arts/design/google-art-projects-expanded-offerings.html?pagewanted=2&_r=1&hp
Wednesday, April 18, 2012
BMW Tate Live Performance Room
By: Jessica Teaford
Jumping off of my article last week this is another great example of using the technology we have available today to allow people to experience art that they would otherwise have no opportunity to see. And for those who say that this will never take the place of seeing a live performance and the audience will not have the same experience, they are correct. But they will have an experience that is uniquely different that is no better or worse than that of a live audience.
The most interesting piece of this article is the fact that the viewers of the live performance were able to use social media as a way to talk to other viewers about the performance and what they were experiencing. Which connected people from all over the world in a way that a live performance would not have been able to. This is a brand new outlet that art organizations should be taking full advantage of.
People in the arts are always complaining that the arts are dying and people do not appreciate it like they use to. In all of my classes in this program and at the arts organization that I work at right now we are always talking the way to save the arts is to get the younger generation involved and interested. We are the technology generation. I would rather get a text than a phone call or email than a letter. Projects like the BMW Tate Live: Performance Room and the Google Arts Project are seeing how the world is changing and adapting themselves to it.
Tuesday, April 17, 2012
How one organization is locking in the 25-35 year old demographic.
As arts managers working in arts organizations the coveted demographic to get into the organization is the 25-35 year olds. Especially for arts organizations that are Classical Symphony organizations or Opera organizations. In a recent article about the organization Fifth-House Ensemble, the Executive Director Melissa Snoza said that when they did their audience study last year it revealed that the 25-25 year old young professional demographic was the base of their audience. How is the organization mastering this? She says it is through the nature of their programming. When they are creating programming they don't just look at it as programming, but as experience design. The organization is always looking for ways to drawl in audience members who are looking for a new take on classical music. Many times this involves bringing the music to where people are instead of expecting them to come to a stuffy rehearsal hall. Their aim is to make it really easy for their audiences to check out something new.
The organization also prides itself in their use of technology, but when looking for a new technology or app to use not all technology is created equally. So what are the criteria for a tech savvy arts organization? Probably not much different than you or I. Snoza says they look for whether or not the tech tool is going to streamline or complicate things. They are normally in the market for apps that let them keep a record of what they have done, or create a template for a particular system so they don't have to reinvent the wheel every time. It seems like this organization has really found a way to embrace technology and use it to grow its audience base.
groupon launches new philanthropic site
http://philanthropy.com/blogs/prospecting/new-groupon-site-allows-charities-to-update-donors/33024
Groupon Grassroots is the 2.0 of the 2010 G-Team project - a site that taught charities how to get their cause in front of Groupon buyers in the format of the now-much-loved "daily deal" that we all get in our inbox every day. This method has raised a surprising amount of money for participating charities, averaging at about $2k per charity. Groupon Grassroots is keeping this successful idea but making it better by allowing charities to give back by posting updates so that donors can see what their donated funds are benefitting. This is a really good idea highlighting the importance of the stewardship of gifts.
Groupon Grassroots is the 2.0 of the 2010 G-Team project - a site that taught charities how to get their cause in front of Groupon buyers in the format of the now-much-loved "daily deal" that we all get in our inbox every day. This method has raised a surprising amount of money for participating charities, averaging at about $2k per charity. Groupon Grassroots is keeping this successful idea but making it better by allowing charities to give back by posting updates so that donors can see what their donated funds are benefitting. This is a really good idea highlighting the importance of the stewardship of gifts.
do.com
do.com
I stumbled upon this site while I was reading an article on the Fifth House Ensemble. When asked what online program they couldn't live without, this program was mentioned, so I figured it would be worth looking into. I did some exploring and it seems like a very valuable system for an arts organization. Much like a lot of the programs we have seen tutorials on have had, this is a task manager that allows you to create projects, assign tasks and follow up. The really great thing about this is that it will sync with the majority of the google programs, like gmail, google docs, google calendar, etc. It also easily incorporates live chat features and allows you to stay connected with your team on mobile devices as well. I am going to suggest that my internship supervisor look into this program as a possibility to streamline all of the work that needs to get done within the school of music. Overall, from the research I have done, this seems to be a very valuable program.
I stumbled upon this site while I was reading an article on the Fifth House Ensemble. When asked what online program they couldn't live without, this program was mentioned, so I figured it would be worth looking into. I did some exploring and it seems like a very valuable system for an arts organization. Much like a lot of the programs we have seen tutorials on have had, this is a task manager that allows you to create projects, assign tasks and follow up. The really great thing about this is that it will sync with the majority of the google programs, like gmail, google docs, google calendar, etc. It also easily incorporates live chat features and allows you to stay connected with your team on mobile devices as well. I am going to suggest that my internship supervisor look into this program as a possibility to streamline all of the work that needs to get done within the school of music. Overall, from the research I have done, this seems to be a very valuable program.
Art+
Art+ is a
new mobile social media platform that helps both emerging contemporary artists
find patrons and patrons find emerging artists. “The invitation-only
forum is aimed at art enthusiasts and collectors of contemporary art, and
involves partnerships with commercial galleries and seasoned curators from
around the world.” Art+ is also hosting an exhibition online called
‘BiennaleOnline”. It is the first exhibition to take place entirely
on the internet. Millions of visitors are expected to log on to and
participate in this year long exhibition. Using technology in this manner
allows individuals who may not necessarily have the correct network in place to
access the right galleries a method of doing so. This also gives patrons from
around the world a chance to view art in great detail. Truly a revolutionary
experience
Nonprofit Social Network Report
The 4th Annual Nonprofit Social Networking Benchmark Report was recently released by Blackbaud, NTEN and Common Knowledge. In a guest post on Beth Kanter's blog (link), Frank Barry from Blackbaud summarizes the findings. The full report is available for download here.
In addition to highlighting community size and growth within different social media networks, Barry highlights that, based on the survery, "the average value of a Facebook Like is $214.81 over 12 months following acquisition." Respondents also revealed that while "73% allocate half of a full time employee to managing social networking activities," only 56% budget anything for social networking activities.
For more highlights and a couple well-done infographics, see the full post at http://www.bethkanter.org/socialnetworking-benchmark/ and then download the full study (for free!) at http://nonprofitsocialnetworksurvey.com/ (registration required).
-Adrienne
Monday, April 16, 2012
Seven on Seven
"Blaine Cook, the founding architect of Twitter, will be paired with
Naeem Mohaimen, whose work explores histories of the international left.
Michael Herf, co-founder of the photo-sharing site Picasa, will be
paired with LaToya Ruby Frazier,
an artist whose work is featured in the 2012 Whitney Biennial. Anthony
Volodkin, founder of the Hype Machine, the music-blogging aggregation
site, will be paired with Xavier Cha, a creator of performance-based art
works."
I found this great article on an annual event called Seven on Seven. Artists and people from the technology world collaborate and present ideas that are " a great idea for the digital world or the world of art, or both." In the past, one idea presented was "a motion-controlled musical instrument that would use human vocals as its “notes."" I think this is a great event and I would personally love to be there when the ideas for this year are presented. Having this event allows some of the top minds of both worlds, the arts and technology, to come together and think of ways to make something better or easier or create something completely new that has the potential to reach new audiences or make art/artists/technologist more money. I think it would be even better if an event happened like this where staff members from art organizations, audience members, and staff members from software companies like Masterpiece Manager got together and shared ideas to make the best of what's already out there even better.
Eventbrite catches the late worm.
Eventbrite’s Newest Ticketing Solution: the “At the Door Card Reader”
By Elizabeth Quaglieri | April 11, 2012
http://www.technologyinthearts.org/2012/04/eventbrites-newest-ticketing-solution-the-at-the-door-card-reader/#more-4657
A common theme throughout the semester has been determining the best and most effective way to capture data. A concern in the industry is how to capture information for last minute ticket buyers in order to eventually turn them into recurring patrons.
Eventbrite has been working to take the guessing game out of both questions. The online event management and ticketing company has released a new iPad product, called "At the Door" to assist event managers in launching a new free app, which can be used with their iPad credit card reader. Using At the Door allows event managers to capture information and sell tickets to the last minute, snap-decision makers.
Being able to capture POS data is essential for small organizations to stay in contact with interested patrons.
Vendini, another ticketing company has also recently upped their game by offering a new ticketing scanner for event managers to be able to scan entrance tickets with an iPad/Phone.
Ideally, these two technologies could be combined to provide a comprehensive ticketing experience during an event with the use of one piece of cost-effective technology.
Sunday, April 15, 2012
Technology at the Freer and Sackler Galleries - Washington, DC
The Freer and Sackler Galleries, are one of the leading art museums of the Smithsonians that really tries to incorporate technology that furthers the national reach of their mission, cultural programming and events. They do this exceptionally well through a variety ways which include the use of interactive online exhibitions, podcasts, videos, e-documents, e-calendars, social media, etc. These features are particularly useful for Asian art researchers across the globe who wouldn't have any other way to access the resources other than the museum's websites.
Podcasts (ex. Japanese Art):
Storytelling http://www.asia.si.edu/podcasts/storytelling.asp
Online Exhibition:
All Online Exhibits: http://www.asia.si.edu/exhibitions/online.asp
Hokusai & Dream Worlds: Modern Japanese Prints and Paintings from the Robert O. Muller Collection: http://www.asia.si.edu/explore/listByArea.asp#
Waves at Masushima: http://www.asia.si.edu/explore/japan/matsushima/screen.asp
Videos (YouTube):
E-Document (ex. Art Educators):
Friday, April 13, 2012
Technology in the actual artwork
We've been talking about technology for the arts (for arts managers), but here's a new twist. What about technology for art consumers? I just read a fascinating article about technology in the actual artwork itself. The Hello Cube at the Tate Modern was a modern interactive sculpture that you could tweet commands to and it would respond with changes in its patterns and colors. So people all over the world could interact with this installation, while people actually in the museum could see the changes reflected in real time. The Hello Cube also responded to voice commands. This exhibit was designed to bring younger people age 16 - 25 into the museum.
Here's a link to the article: http://www.technologyinthearts.org/2012/03/the-hello-cube-at-the-tate-modern-a-tweetable-installation/
The article goes on to talk about the possibility of twitter being used for other exhibits to make them more interactive. Could there be temporary twitter accounts set up for particular pieces of art that would allow viewers to get more information about the artist or piece? Would this really result in bringing younger people into the museum? Museums which are already short staffed and financially strapped might not be able to put manpower and finances toward such an endeavor, and may think of it as gimmicky. Technology has certainly changed the way people live their lives in general, so why wouldn't that change the way they spend their leisure and entertainment time and dollars as well. It might be short sighted for those in the arts to not consider events like these.
Here's a link to the article: http://www.technologyinthearts.org/2012/03/the-hello-cube-at-the-tate-modern-a-tweetable-installation/
The article goes on to talk about the possibility of twitter being used for other exhibits to make them more interactive. Could there be temporary twitter accounts set up for particular pieces of art that would allow viewers to get more information about the artist or piece? Would this really result in bringing younger people into the museum? Museums which are already short staffed and financially strapped might not be able to put manpower and finances toward such an endeavor, and may think of it as gimmicky. Technology has certainly changed the way people live their lives in general, so why wouldn't that change the way they spend their leisure and entertainment time and dollars as well. It might be short sighted for those in the arts to not consider events like these.
Wednesday, April 11, 2012
Advocate for the Artist
I was so happy to see another webinar that could be used in
the fine arts/museum environment! I feel that this major focuses so much on performing
arts that sometimes we forget that the museum world is out there. I am a fine
arts advocate and artist so I felt that I benefited greatly from the
presentation. I was unaware of this software and I think it is going to be very
beneficial for me in the future now that I am somewhat familiar with Masterpiece Manager.
I thought that Masterpiece
Manager was an interesting organization especially because they represent
individual artists as well as organizations through CRM, email and points of
sale. I couldn’t believe that they do not take any cuts or commissions. From an
artists’ standpoint I thought this would be very helpful in promotion and organizational
self-employed environment. I think that if an artist would use Masterpiece Manager, sales would
increase and the individual would be able to be more exact in terms of pricing
and inventory. I especially liked the marketplace and thought that this feature
served as another aspect of marketing for the artist or organization.
As an artist I think that if I were to create a business and
sell my work I would use this software and it would increase my sales and
brand. I really like how their marketing tools include lists that are very
dynamic allows integration between other software such as Quickbooks and Excel. I
think a lot of organizations use these interfaces for record keeping and that integration
is definitely a plus.
Tuesday, April 10, 2012
How to Maximize Kickstarter
What is Kickstarter? Many arts organizations have discovered this funding platform as a way to get project-specific funding. There are however ways that you can better approach funding opportunities for Kickstarter. Recently the Art Program Director of Kickstarter, Stephanie Pereira spoke about the best ways to get funding via the Kickstarter community. Here are her tips:
1. An excellent video goes a long way
This seems fairly obvious, most potential donors are more inclined to become emotionally invested in your project if they are pulled in by a great video.
2. No one cares about swag
This was something that I thought was very interesting. Most Kickstarter perks aren't free t-shirts, mouse pads or other free "junk" they are creative prizes. Most "swag" is as creative as the project donors are giving to!
3. Have a communication plan, different from a marketing plan
This is all about knowing your audience, who are you trying to reach and how can you reach them? How can you give them a different inside look on your project to make them feel like they are really buying into the project and taking ownership?
4. Be realistic about your goal
This means be not only realistic, but be flexible. If you get less money, be willing to scale back your project so that it gets funding. If you get more money, look for opportunities to create a bigger project than first expected.
Knowing what your goal should be can be tricky, here is the formula offered from here:
Your Realistic Kickstarter Goal = Average Pledge ($71) x Number of Backers Expected
To use this formula you must first truly know your network, how big they are and who is responding to you.
Kickstarter might be a great option for your arts organization if they are looking to fund a specific project and these tips will certainly help to ensure funding actually comes through!
promising things
http://www.technologyinthearts.org/2012/04/americans-are-paying-more-for-technology-and-culture/#more-4683
This blog post condenses some information recently released by the CPI and analyzed by The Atlantic and NPR's Planet Money. Findings show that there is a slow increase overtime in the American recreation index, and even in recent post-recession years, there has been an increase in recreation in favor of admission to cultural events.
However, Americans are spending way more money in the recreation index on technology. What does that mean for us? It means that instead of putting the increased income back into policies and departments from whence it came pre-recession, it should be used to modernize cultural organizations using social networking, smart phone applications, etc. This would help bring these organizations into the 21st century and make them more attractive to the up-and-coming generation.
IT and the arts are at an exciting, very promising crossroads.
This blog post condenses some information recently released by the CPI and analyzed by The Atlantic and NPR's Planet Money. Findings show that there is a slow increase overtime in the American recreation index, and even in recent post-recession years, there has been an increase in recreation in favor of admission to cultural events.
However, Americans are spending way more money in the recreation index on technology. What does that mean for us? It means that instead of putting the increased income back into policies and departments from whence it came pre-recession, it should be used to modernize cultural organizations using social networking, smart phone applications, etc. This would help bring these organizations into the 21st century and make them more attractive to the up-and-coming generation.
IT and the arts are at an exciting, very promising crossroads.
Art Organizations and Virtual Tours
By: Jessica Teaford
In Arts and Society we talked about whether museums should put virtual tours on websites such as the Google Arts Project. The room was spilt about 50/50. Some people said that the virtual tours were kind-of cheating. It was cheating because viewers of the websites would not be able to get the full experience of the museum and seeing the art in person. The other side was saying that putting the art online opened it up to more viewers. People that could never afford to travel to the Paris to see the Louvre are finally able to see pieces of art that they would never be able to otherwise.
I was on the side of allowing people to see the things they would never be able to see otherwise. People want information. And allowing them to see art from around the world helps make the world a little bit smaller. I think art organizations not just museums could benefit from these virtual tours. At the box office I work at I spend more time on the phone trying to explain to patrons what our venue looks like because they want to make the most informed decision when making their seat selection. Virtual tours would help patrons know where their seats will be and what their view of the stage will be. This I think will help with people coming up to the window when they are unhappy with their seats because there was not a clear picture on the website.
Project Glass, by Google (X)
Google (X), which is Google's long-term projects division, has come up with the beginnings of a product that could change the way people experience music, art, and commerce.
It's called augmented reality. Smart phones are already doing it to some extent, but project glass takes it many steps further.
Google is utilizing glasses with digital displays in the lenses, that "paint a picture" over top whatever it is you're looking at in real life.
There's no telling exactly when Project: Glass will be available to the public, but now at least we know Google's intentions of integrating technology even deeper into our everyday life.
I've attached a video below from Google's YouTube page, which shows some of the functionality that Project Glass will have:
http://www.wired.com/epicenter/2012/04/epicenter-google-glass-ar/
It's called augmented reality. Smart phones are already doing it to some extent, but project glass takes it many steps further.
Google is utilizing glasses with digital displays in the lenses, that "paint a picture" over top whatever it is you're looking at in real life.
There's no telling exactly when Project: Glass will be available to the public, but now at least we know Google's intentions of integrating technology even deeper into our everyday life.
I've attached a video below from Google's YouTube page, which shows some of the functionality that Project Glass will have:
http://www.wired.com/epicenter/2012/04/epicenter-google-glass-ar/
The Use of Social Media
Mashable Social Media
Blog: How Non-Profits Are Using Social Media
October 14, 2011
By Zoe Fox
http://mashable.com/2011/10/14/how-non-profits-use-social-media/
I recently came across an interesting blog on Mashable Social Media that studied the correlation between social media use and an organization's net worth, in this case nonprofits. Craigslist founder, Craig Newmark, explained the use of social media perfectly, “The deal is, it’s not about money, it’s about getting people to talk with each other to make people’s lives better." That is exactly right. Social media technology is now the new word or mouth and best friend to any public relations and marketing manner. Social media is also the main part of people's everyday lives. They rely on these sites to be educated and entertained.
Newmark created a study which focused on nonprofits use of social media primary through the use of Facebook, Flickr,Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube and RSS feeds. The results were very interesting. The study's results explain that the largest nonprofit may not have the largest voice in the social media world. For example, this study showed that on Twitter such nonprofits as Public Broadcasting Service and the Smithsonian have an extremely high number of followers however were not found to be the "Most Talkative." It seems that these organizations may have a different perspective and plan of the use of social media sites. Smaller nonprofits such as Save the Children Federation had a larger social media voice online but had less Twitter follows.
I think that many nonprofits understand the importance of social media and how this tool can be used to educate an extremely large number of people. It is vital that social media be used to its full potential which in many cases invloved linking social media links to your organzation's software and tecnology resources. After learning about the integration of Facebook and Twitter feeds into software I know understand how many people can be reached by one post on any social media site. I truely believe that being inovative by the use of technology is the key to bring sucess to any nonprofit.
Blog: How Non-Profits Are Using Social Media
October 14, 2011
By Zoe Fox
http://mashable.com/2011/10/14/how-non-profits-use-social-media/
I recently came across an interesting blog on Mashable Social Media that studied the correlation between social media use and an organization's net worth, in this case nonprofits. Craigslist founder, Craig Newmark, explained the use of social media perfectly, “The deal is, it’s not about money, it’s about getting people to talk with each other to make people’s lives better." That is exactly right. Social media technology is now the new word or mouth and best friend to any public relations and marketing manner. Social media is also the main part of people's everyday lives. They rely on these sites to be educated and entertained.
Newmark created a study which focused on nonprofits use of social media primary through the use of Facebook, Flickr,Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube and RSS feeds. The results were very interesting. The study's results explain that the largest nonprofit may not have the largest voice in the social media world. For example, this study showed that on Twitter such nonprofits as Public Broadcasting Service and the Smithsonian have an extremely high number of followers however were not found to be the "Most Talkative." It seems that these organizations may have a different perspective and plan of the use of social media sites. Smaller nonprofits such as Save the Children Federation had a larger social media voice online but had less Twitter follows.
I think that many nonprofits understand the importance of social media and how this tool can be used to educate an extremely large number of people. It is vital that social media be used to its full potential which in many cases invloved linking social media links to your organzation's software and tecnology resources. After learning about the integration of Facebook and Twitter feeds into software I know understand how many people can be reached by one post on any social media site. I truely believe that being inovative by the use of technology is the key to bring sucess to any nonprofit.
Vendini-Taking Over College Campuses
Vendini Leads in University Sign-Ups
After the webinar for Vendini, I wanted to see if anything interesting happened in the news concerning the organization. Apparently, they integrated popular payment systems among universities into its software. As a result, a lot of universities are using Vendini for ticketing. The article also mentioned how Vendini keeps up with its technology. The company launched a new Android application and updated its Apple applications.
This article leads me to believe that Vendini is a company that stays on top of things and is probably always looking to improve, which are great qualities in a company you would be investing probably $1000s in. If Vendini is up-to-date then you are up-to-date.
From the webinar, the software looked user-friendly and that's always a plus to me. Something user-friendly means less of a hassle training current and new employees. If I'm running a non-profit, the last thing I want to do it waste money on training employees on software. Vendini seems like solid software just from the webinar and looking into it online.
After the webinar for Vendini, I wanted to see if anything interesting happened in the news concerning the organization. Apparently, they integrated popular payment systems among universities into its software. As a result, a lot of universities are using Vendini for ticketing. The article also mentioned how Vendini keeps up with its technology. The company launched a new Android application and updated its Apple applications.
This article leads me to believe that Vendini is a company that stays on top of things and is probably always looking to improve, which are great qualities in a company you would be investing probably $1000s in. If Vendini is up-to-date then you are up-to-date.
From the webinar, the software looked user-friendly and that's always a plus to me. Something user-friendly means less of a hassle training current and new employees. If I'm running a non-profit, the last thing I want to do it waste money on training employees on software. Vendini seems like solid software just from the webinar and looking into it online.
Is it art?
http://www.tate.org.uk/context-comment/blogs/hello-cube-tate-modern
http://www.technologyinthearts.org/2012/03/the-hello-cube-at-the-tate-modern-a-tweetable-installation/#more-4493
From March 23-25, the Tate Modern hosted an exhibit to celebrate Yayoi Kusama.
Digital design duo, Helliker and Lewis submitted the Hello Cube as part of the exhibit. They describe it as "an installation that exists as a sculptural object that you can look inside, see patterns, and an infinity of reflections.
What makes the piece truly remarkable is it's twitterificness. While the piece responds to voice and physical movement, it will also follow the commands and sent a response to tweets it receives.
Exhibits such as this raise other questions. In an effort to draw the attention of a younger audience, should classic pieces, such as the Mona Lisa have a social media persona. If so, does it take away from it being "art". How does something like that differ from modern reactive art? Is it more likely that an audience would interact with a classic piece or a reactive piece? Is reactive art the genre of the future? Is the art in the reaction or the interaction? Would you tweet with a piece of artwork?
http://www.technologyinthearts.org/2012/03/the-hello-cube-at-the-tate-modern-a-tweetable-installation/#more-4493
From March 23-25, the Tate Modern hosted an exhibit to celebrate Yayoi Kusama.
Digital design duo, Helliker and Lewis submitted the Hello Cube as part of the exhibit. They describe it as "an installation that exists as a sculptural object that you can look inside, see patterns, and an infinity of reflections.
What makes the piece truly remarkable is it's twitterificness. While the piece responds to voice and physical movement, it will also follow the commands and sent a response to tweets it receives.
Exhibits such as this raise other questions. In an effort to draw the attention of a younger audience, should classic pieces, such as the Mona Lisa have a social media persona. If so, does it take away from it being "art". How does something like that differ from modern reactive art? Is it more likely that an audience would interact with a classic piece or a reactive piece? Is reactive art the genre of the future? Is the art in the reaction or the interaction? Would you tweet with a piece of artwork?
Monday, April 9, 2012
BMW Tate Live
http://www.technologyinthearts.org/2012/04/bmw-tate-live-an-online-space-for-performance-art/#more-4595
This new innovation in arts performance could either be really positive, or really negative, in my opinion. As it is a new idea, it could either be really good for a modern arts groups or it could lead to disaster. Since the performances are solely for viewing on the internet, it could push away the older crowds who would prefer to go to a performance in person. On the other hand, This could lead to a lot more exposure through mediums like facebook and twitter. The idea that a performance can be on a global level without and people in the "in-person" audience is fantastic and could be a really great step for arts organizations. Tate Live will continue to test out this idea over the next half year and then go from there.
This new innovation in arts performance could either be really positive, or really negative, in my opinion. As it is a new idea, it could either be really good for a modern arts groups or it could lead to disaster. Since the performances are solely for viewing on the internet, it could push away the older crowds who would prefer to go to a performance in person. On the other hand, This could lead to a lot more exposure through mediums like facebook and twitter. The idea that a performance can be on a global level without and people in the "in-person" audience is fantastic and could be a really great step for arts organizations. Tate Live will continue to test out this idea over the next half year and then go from there.
Mobile Sites & Online Giving
Two related articles that may interest others:
1) Online Fundraising Increased 19% in 2011, Says New Report: According to the 2012 eNonprofit Benchmarks Study, online giving " jumped 19 percent in 2011 compared with the previous year, and the number of Internet gifts they received climbed 20 percent, according to a new study that analyzes online fundraising and advocacy at 44 national charities." ( http://philanthropy.com/blogs/social-philanthropy/online-fundraising-increased-19-in-2011-says-new-report/30454 )
2) Nonprofits Need to Think More About Mobile: According to a survey conducted by the Pew Internet & American Life Project, 10% of cell-owning respondents identified their cellphone as their primary means of accessing online content, with that number being higher amoung young people and low-income workers. (http://philanthropy.com/blogs/social-philanthropy/nonprofits-need-to-think-more-about-mobile/30408)
-Adrienne
1) Online Fundraising Increased 19% in 2011, Says New Report: According to the 2012 eNonprofit Benchmarks Study, online giving " jumped 19 percent in 2011 compared with the previous year, and the number of Internet gifts they received climbed 20 percent, according to a new study that analyzes online fundraising and advocacy at 44 national charities." ( http://philanthropy.com/blogs/social-philanthropy/online-fundraising-increased-19-in-2011-says-new-report/30454 )
2) Nonprofits Need to Think More About Mobile: According to a survey conducted by the Pew Internet & American Life Project, 10% of cell-owning respondents identified their cellphone as their primary means of accessing online content, with that number being higher amoung young people and low-income workers. (http://philanthropy.com/blogs/social-philanthropy/nonprofits-need-to-think-more-about-mobile/30408)
-Adrienne
ZEEN
What will come next! A new tool for arts managers to utilize when promoting our organizations will be unleashed to the public soon. Zeen.com will follow in YouTube’s footsteps and allow users to upload their favorite magazines for viewing and downloading in addition to the already popular videos. Depending on the setup of Zeen, smaller organizations could benefit from an easier magazine design and distribution method, opposed to having a full time design employee. The full scope of this website is still not available, but, the idea behind it sounds intriguing. Sign up for your user name now!
Sunday, April 8, 2012
Artforum’s “artguide” is now an Art App for iPhone, iPod and iPad users.
With the rise of on-the-go audiences and their needs to access data/information instantly via mobile devises, arts organizations and affiliated businesses have to find ways to keep up with the trend. Artforum International Magazine seems to be leading this example by launching their exclusive online “artguide” as an “art app”, which is now available for iPhone, iPod and iPad users. The new app generates lists of all visual arts openings, on-going exhibitions, art fairs and events within a particular city anywhere around the world. This is great for arts enthusiasts who heavily rely on their mobile devices as their own personal traveling guides rather than the traditional printed guides. In connection, it is another important platform that visual arts organizations alike should look into regarding the marketing of their individual organizational exhibitions and events. If websites are not adaptable to mobile functions, it will be one less marketing opportunity for organizations and a potential loss of an audience member who may not be reachable any other way.
Artforum online “artguide”: http://artforum.com/guide/
Artforum’s “artguide” app @ itunes: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/artguide/id508043725?mt=8&ign-mpt=uo%3D4
Tuesday, April 3, 2012
Vendini
Having just watched the Vendini presentation, I was impressed. Particularly impressive were their mobile, ipad, itouch applications. This capability is lacking in many other software companies and the organizations that use them are loosing out. Another impressive feature was their automated email system's ability to send out emails to customers before/after an event to remind them or thank them. That is good customer relationship building.
I wanted to know what their customer think, so I searched on the web and not surprisingly found the feedback very positive. Many users commented that it makes their jobs easier and more pleasant. Others said they had used other systems and this was far superior. Honestly I couldn't find a negative comment.
Something to think about when contracting with a company such as Vendini, is what is their financial health. It would be disastrous to switch over to Vendini (or another company) only to have them go out of business and you loose everything. That could be difficult for a small organization without the financial expertise to investigate it.
UI
User
interface is a critical component in the success of any organization. As we
have seen, it is critical to have a user friendly and intuitive program helping
arts managers to compile data on the back-end, but if we get too caught up in
how we can help ourselves or our budgets, do we risk ignoring our goal to
provide basic services to our patrons, or is this technology making it easier
for us to serve them? While we have been exposed to several
different user interfaces when looking at the various programs this semester,
some have definitely been more focused on the needs of its users than
others. The next step would be to see how integrated and cohesive these
programs can become when applied to each individual art ecosystem. While
primarily focused on the patron's user interface, this article states the need
for a unified approach when dealing with technology. When shopping around
for various systems, it would be helpful for multiple departments to
potentially review how it could be incorporated with what they are already
using.
Spotify: The Pros and Cons
If you don't already know what Spotify is.....
Spotify is a free (relatively free) music service where you can stream millions of songs online or on your phone, through the Spotify OS. You can also upgrade to Spotify Premium, where for $10 a month you can even use Spotify offline, as it will save your chosen playlists right on your computer or handheld device.
So obvious there are some pro's, such as it being one of the cheapest ways for the consumer to gain access to a massive amount of music.
But the con's are also become more exposed as Spotify gains more popularity in America. And the truth is, that the artists who add their music to the Spotify collection aren't getting nearly as much money for each listen. There are articles all over the place on the web right now talking about how Spotify is really just another mechanism that the music industry is using to hold on to profits. How are they doing that? Each of the major labels in the industry are investors in Spotify. So not only do they receive money from the subscription fees, but they also make earn a profit on the shares or their stock. The indie labels had no such opportunity to invest in Spotify, as much of it happened behind closed doors. This means that the indie artists get even less back from Spotify than the major label artists do.
It's a controversial situation, and not everyone is benefiting. Some speculate that all of the negative press about Spotify and their compensation system will lead to enough artists pulling their music out of their library. If so, music operating systems like iTunes will get the chance to fight another day, and stay viable as the primary system in which music is distributed in America.
http://www.musicthinktank.com/blog/3-reasons-spotify-may-never-be-the-os-of-music.html
http://www.musicthinktank.com/blog/hear-like-buy-why-spotify-is-marketing-not-commerce.html
Spotify is a free (relatively free) music service where you can stream millions of songs online or on your phone, through the Spotify OS. You can also upgrade to Spotify Premium, where for $10 a month you can even use Spotify offline, as it will save your chosen playlists right on your computer or handheld device.
So obvious there are some pro's, such as it being one of the cheapest ways for the consumer to gain access to a massive amount of music.
But the con's are also become more exposed as Spotify gains more popularity in America. And the truth is, that the artists who add their music to the Spotify collection aren't getting nearly as much money for each listen. There are articles all over the place on the web right now talking about how Spotify is really just another mechanism that the music industry is using to hold on to profits. How are they doing that? Each of the major labels in the industry are investors in Spotify. So not only do they receive money from the subscription fees, but they also make earn a profit on the shares or their stock. The indie labels had no such opportunity to invest in Spotify, as much of it happened behind closed doors. This means that the indie artists get even less back from Spotify than the major label artists do.
It's a controversial situation, and not everyone is benefiting. Some speculate that all of the negative press about Spotify and their compensation system will lead to enough artists pulling their music out of their library. If so, music operating systems like iTunes will get the chance to fight another day, and stay viable as the primary system in which music is distributed in America.
http://www.musicthinktank.com/blog/3-reasons-spotify-may-never-be-the-os-of-music.html
http://www.musicthinktank.com/blog/hear-like-buy-why-spotify-is-marketing-not-commerce.html
Clark Art's new exhibition allows users to curate their own galleries
http://www.technologyinthearts.org/2012/03/digital-applications-ucurate-and-uexplore-at-the-clark-museum/#more-4453
http://www.clarkart.edu/exhibitions/remix/content/clark-remix-release.pdf
One of the most important things the arts can do in such tumultuous times is remain current. Many different organizations are trying to do so by engaging Facebook, Twitter, smartphone apps and more to reach out and engage with an audience that's becoming more and more addicted to constant communication and interaction.
The Sterling and Francine Clark Art Institute in Williamstown, Massachusetts is giving art lovers the opportunity to curate their own exhibits using an online database of artwork that the Clark actually has in its collections. This application, uCurate, works in conjunction with uExplore, and both applications were designed specifically to use with the actual exhibit that opened on February 8th, Clark Remix.
The Clark Remix exhibition features hundreds of items of all different styles and time periods from their collection arranged in surprising, new ways. uExplore lets gallery visitors (whether in person at kiosks in the exhibit, or digitally from their iPads) touch pieces of the exhibit (and other collections at the Clark) and learn more about them, and uCurate gives users the opportunity to create their own exhibit using real items from the collections, organize the artwork, pick the wall color, lighting, etc. What's more, users can submit their exhibits to the actual team of curators at the Clark for consideration for a new exhibit. The chosen guest curators will be invited to join the team to bring their visions to life in the galleries.
This is one more exciting example of the steps traditional arts organizations are taking to modernize themselves and appeal to Generation-Y. It demonstrates the importance of thinking outside the box, and the genius that can come when art and IT work together hand-in-hand.
http://www.clarkart.edu/exhibitions/remix/content/clark-remix-release.pdf
One of the most important things the arts can do in such tumultuous times is remain current. Many different organizations are trying to do so by engaging Facebook, Twitter, smartphone apps and more to reach out and engage with an audience that's becoming more and more addicted to constant communication and interaction.
The Sterling and Francine Clark Art Institute in Williamstown, Massachusetts is giving art lovers the opportunity to curate their own exhibits using an online database of artwork that the Clark actually has in its collections. This application, uCurate, works in conjunction with uExplore, and both applications were designed specifically to use with the actual exhibit that opened on February 8th, Clark Remix.
The Clark Remix exhibition features hundreds of items of all different styles and time periods from their collection arranged in surprising, new ways. uExplore lets gallery visitors (whether in person at kiosks in the exhibit, or digitally from their iPads) touch pieces of the exhibit (and other collections at the Clark) and learn more about them, and uCurate gives users the opportunity to create their own exhibit using real items from the collections, organize the artwork, pick the wall color, lighting, etc. What's more, users can submit their exhibits to the actual team of curators at the Clark for consideration for a new exhibit. The chosen guest curators will be invited to join the team to bring their visions to life in the galleries.
This is one more exciting example of the steps traditional arts organizations are taking to modernize themselves and appeal to Generation-Y. It demonstrates the importance of thinking outside the box, and the genius that can come when art and IT work together hand-in-hand.
A Good Old Fashioned Show Down
In the age of intense media saturation, it is difficult for an organization to make the presence known amongst their competitors. But sometimes, it takes a friendly competition for everyone to win.
After meeting each other at a conference in San Francisco Craig Watson, the newly hired Director of the California Arts Council, and Bob Booker, Executive Director of the Arizona Commission on the Arts challenged each other to a 10k race. A race to see who could be the first arts organization to reach the 10,000 mark. Once word of the challenge spread, other organizations joined in. The NEA added fuel to the fire by offering a prize to the winner.
What unfolded was a creative an innovative marketing competition. Each organization attacked the challenge with a different strategy, such as YouTube videos, posters, photos, etc. Even though the race is officially over, reading about the competition encourage me to immediately checked all of the competitors sights just to see where they currently stand.
But what really happened, is that the competitors had a chance to REALLY focus on their advertising, tweak issues, re-think the wheel and streamline. After winning the competition, the California Arts Council issued a series of videos entitled "Facebook Fundamentals", which lay out the lessons they learned during the competition.
In the end, everybody won.
http://www.cac.ca.gov/newsroom/atthecacdetail.php?id=357
After meeting each other at a conference in San Francisco Craig Watson, the newly hired Director of the California Arts Council, and Bob Booker, Executive Director of the Arizona Commission on the Arts challenged each other to a 10k race. A race to see who could be the first arts organization to reach the 10,000 mark. Once word of the challenge spread, other organizations joined in. The NEA added fuel to the fire by offering a prize to the winner.
What unfolded was a creative an innovative marketing competition. Each organization attacked the challenge with a different strategy, such as YouTube videos, posters, photos, etc. Even though the race is officially over, reading about the competition encourage me to immediately checked all of the competitors sights just to see where they currently stand.
But what really happened, is that the competitors had a chance to REALLY focus on their advertising, tweak issues, re-think the wheel and streamline. After winning the competition, the California Arts Council issued a series of videos entitled "Facebook Fundamentals", which lay out the lessons they learned during the competition.
In the end, everybody won.
http://www.cac.ca.gov/newsroom/atthecacdetail.php?id=357
Monday, April 2, 2012
Visual Arts Database: Art.sy
This weekend, I read a review of Art.sy, a still-in-beta online database project for visual art. According to its website, the project "is powered by The Art Genome Project, an ongoing study of the characteristics that distinguish and connect works of art;" in practical terms, this means that "Art.sy evaluates artworks across 800+ characteristics (we call them genes)—such as art-historical movements, subject matter, and formal qualities—to create a powerful search experience that reflects the multifaceted aspects of works of art."
In her post, "Art.sy Not Yet Netflix of Art" on Art Fag City, Paddy Johnson offers a review of the database based on a beta use invitation. Johnson’s detail-rich overview looks at what Art.sy plans to do, evaluates the interface, examines its content, and lists the pros and cons of the site before deciding that, currently, it’s not really worth it. In addition to being a comprehensive look at Art.sy, it’s also an excellent example of an in-depth software / database review.
Johnson’s post may be read in full at http://www.artfagcity.com/2012/03/28/art-sy-not-yet-netflix-for-art/
-Adrienne
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