I really like the Google Art Project, fuzzy photos and all. Thanks Kelsey! I think it is a cool idea, and it'll be interesting to see where they take it.
What is especially great, in my opinion, about taking these virtual tours of the museum, is getting to see the work in context with other work. Although one can access so much artwork just through internet image searches, to be able to see it in a museum or curatorial context, among other art, is something really unique.
I did find one article that paints a less than glowing picture of the project. The author makes some valid points- I don't think anyone would disagree that seeing artwork with your own eyes can be a truly amazing experience- but to be "skeptical' about a technology (no matter how "widely available") that gives people another option to experiencing art is a bit unfair. I keep thinking about how cool it will be to be able to project the museums onto screens in a classroom (obviously providing the school would have such resources) and being able to take students on a "tour", even if it is a pixelated one.
i have to be honest that although i think the idea of google art project is great, i'm not totally sold yet, but for different reasons than the article you reference, jess. the interface is not great, and takes some getting used to, and the ability to only go in depth on one piece is a little disappointing. who's chosen the piece? why does it need to be one of the 'famous' ones? and doesn't moving around a curated space in cyberspace feel limiting? like the museum big brother is now dictating something to you beyond it's walls? i'm not saying the project itself doesn't seem pretty cool, but maybe we're just not quite there yet.
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