By 1812Blockhouse
The Ohio State University is making its public art more accessible with the launch of a new website and app, enhancing the art-viewing experience for visitors across its campuses. This initiative is part of a broader effort by the university to engage the community with its diverse collection of public art and galleries.
Enhancing Access to Art with QR Codes
The new service incorporates QR codes placed around the university’s five campuses, allowing visitors to scan and access detailed information about the art installations. This system provides insights into the history, artists, and significance of each piece, along with maps and additional information about the university.
The QR codes connect to the Bloomberg Connects app, a platform that features similar guides for numerous art galleries, museums, and landmarks worldwide, putting Ohio State’s art in a global context. This user-friendly approach allows for an enriched experience, offering information at visitors’ fingertips.
A Campus-Wide Initiative
While much of Ohio State’s art is prominently displayed on the Columbus campus, the initiative extends beyond to include the regional campuses in Lima, Marion, Mansfield, and Newark. Each location boasts unique galleries and public art, broadening the scope of the project.
“We have the regional campuses, too,” noted Cavanaugh, who has been instrumental in the QR code installation process. “Lima, Marion, and Mansfield all have gallery space, and Newark has public art sculptures.”
This inclusive approach ensures that the university’s artistic offerings are celebrated across all its campuses, encouraging exploration and engagement with the arts community.
The Role of Lisa Florman: Driving Arts Engagement
Since her appointment as the vice provost for the arts in September 2022, Lisa Florman has spearheaded multiple projects to elevate the arts at Ohio State. The development of the new app and website is a significant step towards her vision of a more connected and accessible arts environment.
One of Florman’s notable achievements is the creation of a comprehensive arts website. This platform not only features information about Ohio State’s public art but also provides a centralized calendar of arts events, special initiatives, and gallery exhibitions across all campuses—an offering that Cavanaugh describes as a first for the university.
A New Digital Platform for Campus Art
The website and app reflect Ohio State’s commitment to promoting interactions with the arts and enhancing the visitor experience. As Cavanaugh explained, the installation of QR codes around campus prompted her to consider how digital tools could deepen public engagement with the university’s art collection.
Both the website and the app are designed to be more than just informational tools; they are gateways to experiencing Ohio State’s vibrant arts scene, encouraging students, faculty, and the public to connect with art in new and innovative ways.
Source: Ohio State News; Bloomberg Connects; Image by Couleur from Pixabay
