The Google Art Project expansion saw the year-old online museum adding over 30,000 more pieces of art from galleries and museums worldwide to its digital reserves, as well as adding Google+ into the experience.
Google's free online art collection has grown to include pieces from 151 museums in 40 different countries. This is a huge increase from the less than 20 that were featured when the gallery was first launched.
As well as adding new pieces to the gallery, Google+ features have been embedded into the experience and users can join 'hangouts' and 'chats' specific to certain pieces. This allows for experts and art lovers alike who are not able to physically experience some of the pieces the ability to interact and discuss the content in an in-depth and social way.
The Google Art Project expansion enables virtual sharing of famous art from around the globe, and fosters cultural conversation between people who may never have had the opportunity to speak otherwise.
Interactive Online Galleries (UPDATE)
The Google Art Project Expansion Incorporates Social Media
Trend Themes
1. Expansion of Online Galleries - The expansion of online galleries such as the Google Art Project allows for a larger collection of art to be accessible to users, increasing the potential for virtual art experiences.
2. Integration of Social Media - The incorporation of social media features, like Google+, into online art galleries allows for interactive and social conversations about the art, enhancing the user experience.
3. Virtual Cultural Exchange - The Google Art Project expansion promotes cultural conversation and connection between people from different countries and backgrounds, fostering a global community of art enthusiasts.
Industry Implications
1. Online Art Galleries - The growth of online art galleries like the Google Art Project creates opportunities for new platforms and technologies to enhance the virtual art experience.
2. Social Media - The integration of social media features into online art galleries presents opportunities for social media platforms to collaborate with art institutions and provide new avenues for cultural engagement.
3. Global Cultural Exchange - The virtual sharing of art from different museums around the world opens up opportunities for travel and tourism industries to develop innovative ways to promote cultural exchange and exploration.