The world of art has also felt the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Many artists and designers are struggling to make ends meet now that art shows, fairs, and auctions cannot be conducted due to social distancing and quarantine guidelines.
But the health crisis has unexpectedly opened opportunities. Galleries, both small and large, are launching online viewing rooms. Immersive technology is slowly becoming a trend in art these days in response to the current situation.
For how long will artists have to do things online? It depends. But it's worth noting that online viewing rooms can be done long-term and could be the next big thing in art.
ArtLab
ArtLab is the new technology and research division of mega-gallery Hauser and Wirth. It was originally started in 2019, but the recent lockdown has enabled the gallery to use the platform again.
ArtLab's first project will launch later this month -- a VR experience called HWVR. Based in Los Angeles, USA, the project will also offer an artist residency and allow artists to experiment with the platform.
All World
All World is a brand new platform that lets designers and artists upload and sell their self-published works via augmented reality. Users will be given insight into how a piece of art will look like inside their homes by choosing pieces and use the "See in AR" option on their smartphones.
The platform was developed by Sebastian Errazuriz and Zander Eckbald, along with a team of engineers. The developers believe that AR is the future of art and will be the method in which more people will gain access.
Vortic XR
Vortic XR is an extended reality platform designed to address the unique needs of collectors and art galleries. It was founded by entrepreneur Oliver Miro whose goal is to offer sustainable and personalized solutions to art exhibits using virtual reality and augmented reality.
Vortic will launch this month featuring artworks from Victoria Miro and David Zwirner galleries.
Frieze
A virtual version of the Frieze art fair will take place from May 8 to 15, as the physical event in New York was canceled due to the coronavirus pandemic. Art enthusiasts are up for over 200 galleries with up to 30 works each in individual Viewing Rooms.
There is also an AR version for those who want to know what the pieces would look like in their own homes. Audiences can search for works by gallery, artist, medium, section, and price, as well as view narrative content.
