Snapchat is pushing the boundaries of art appreciation by blending the traditional museum experience with cutting-edge Augmented Reality (AR) technology. Their latest collaboration, titled “Ghost Variations,” brings the Lincoln Center’s newest exhibition to life captivatingly.
Developed by AR innovator Alexis Zerafa and digital artist and sculptor Sophie Kahn, “Ghost Variations” utilizes AR Lenses within the Snapchat app to create an immersive experience for visitors. Available until August 10th, the project visualizes mental health and sound through captivating AR sculptures accessible to anyone who downloads Snapchat.
Music Translated into Form: A Glimpse into the Project
At the heart of “Ghost Variations” lies the story of 19th-century composer Robert Schumann. The project delves into the final years of Schumann’s life, spent in a psychiatric asylum. His reliance on J.S. Bach’s music becomes the central theme, reflecting his struggle with mental health.
The AR experience revolves around larger-than-life sculptures of busts – not just of Schumann and Bach but also of contemporary models. These sculptures come alive through the Snapchat Lens. Artist Sophie Kahn took a unique approach, playing Schumann’s music underwater, capturing the soundwaves, and then mapping them onto the sculptures. This translates the music into a visual representation, creating a compelling way to experience how we perceive and interact with music.
Snapchat’s Commitment to Art and Technology
“Ghost Variations” isn’t Snapchat’s first foray into merging the worlds of art and technology. The platform has a history of collaborating with renowned institutions and artists. Past projects include digital art initiatives with The Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) and the Fine Arts Museum of San Francisco (FAMSF). Additionally, Snapchat has worked with prominent modern artists like Jeffrey Koons, Damien Hirst, and KAWS, developing various AR art activations.
These collaborations highlight Snapchat’s dedication to connecting creative expression and modern technology. Ultimately, it can ensure that classic art forms remain relevant and accessible to younger audiences who may not gravitate toward traditional museum experiences.
Ghost Variations: A Step Towards the Future of Art
“Ghost Variations” exemplifies AR’s potential for art appreciation. It offers a unique way for visitors to engage with the Lincoln Center’s exhibition and paves the way for future AR-powered art projects. These innovative experiences could become even more impactful as AR wearables become more prevalent.
With projects like “Ghost Variations,” Snapchat blurs the lines between the physical and digital worlds, creating engaging opportunities for art enthusiasts and casual viewers alike. By leveraging AR technology, Snapchat fosters a future where art can be experienced and understood in exciting new ways.
Want to Experience “Ghost Variations?”
Visit the Lincoln Center website to learn more about the project and delve into the world of “Ghost Variations.” Additionally, you can access the AR experience directly within the Snapchat app by searching for the “Ghost Variations” Lens. This innovative collaboration between art and technology is readily accessible to anyone with a smartphone, offering a window into the future of artistic exploration.
