A Tale of Two Platforms

I recently Googled Africa Remix. To my surprise, there were way more results than when I embarked on this project. Nonetheless, these two platforms seemed like they gave their best try in communicating what the initial exhibition was and contained. However, both fell short.

I compare them because they both took vastly different approaches to this communication, yet neither experience was very satisfying. 
Topic
Curation
Written on
August 2, 2023
Course

Navigating Digital Art Exhibitions: Universe in Universes vs. Google Arts and Culture

When I started this journey, Africa Remix was accessible online primarily through two major platforms. 

Before I dive into those two platforms, I'd like to acknowledge the following: in the digital representation of art exhibitions, the manner in which artwork is displayed and explored can vary significantly, as seen in the comparison of Universe in Universes and Google Arts and Culture.

Universe in Universes: An Organized, Yet Static Display

Universe in Universes takes an approach akin to a traditional exhibition. It meticulously lists all artists and offers a systematic overview of the exhibition layout. However, this method, while thorough, lacks the dynamic visual elements necessary to vividly reconstruct the exhibition's physical ambiance. The platform provides photographs and labels, but these elements fall short in recreating the immersive experience of walking through the actual exhibition.

Google Arts and Culture: A Richer Visual Journey

Google Arts and Culture, on the other hand, excels in presenting a more engaging visual experience. With larger images and varied perspectives, the platform allows for a deeper exploration of selected artworks. Its strength lies not only in the quality of the visuals but also in the thoughtful organization of content. By grouping artists and artworks effectively, it facilitates connections between similar works, enhancing the viewer’s understanding and appreciation.

A Tale of Two Platforms

This comparison highlights the significant impact of presentation and structure in digital art exhibitions. While Universe in Universes offers a straightforward, informative approach, Google Arts and Culture takes the viewer on a more in-depth and visually captivating journey. These contrasting experiences underscore the importance of design choices in digital platforms when it comes to conveying the essence and narrative of art exhibitions.