Let’s Arthop

Redefining Museum Experiences for the Young and Inspired

Objective
My MFA thesis project is a socially-oriented endeavor. Throughout the process of selecting and completing my MFA thesis, I sought to gain insights into societal issues, ultimately choosing one that resonated with me and applying design principles and methodologies to propose potential solutions. Over the course of a year, I delved into my chosen topic, validating its significance and impact, and employed user-centered design thinking to identify possible avenues for resolution. This encompassed a spectrum of research techniques, including UX research, social surveys, the development of design strategies, and the execution of deliverables, all underpinned by a series of user workshops aimed at pinpointing issues, understanding user pain points, and crafting design-driven solutions.

Strategy
As Philippe de Montebello, the Director of the Museum of Modern Art in New York, aptly stated, "A museum is the memory of mankind." The design solutions proposed by ArtHop are a manifestation of this profound sentiment, advocating for museum experiences that are social, enjoyable, and meaningful.

Through extensive social research, I uncovered a surprising statistic: young adults are notably underrepresented in museum attendance, as reported by the National Endowment for the Arts. This finding piqued my interest, given my passion for art institutions, leading me to conduct further research and pinpoint the underlying reasons behind this disparity. Armed with insights gathered from social surveys, I developed ArtHop—a hypothetical brand dedicated to enhancing the museum experiences of young adults. By leveraging social engagement and enriching museum activities, I devised a platform that fosters an enjoyable and interactive environment. On ArtHop, young adults can select museums based on their artistic preferences, receive notifications about nearby art-related events, and connect with like-minded individuals for art discussions or even friendship. Additionally, I designed a portable electronic pen that allows users to effortlessly access information about artworks, archive their favorite pieces, and order memorabilia online. From posters to mugs, shirts, and puzzles, users can transform their beloved artworks into a variety of fun products. ArtHop not only provides young adults with a more meaningful avenue for art exploration but also holds the potential to assist museums in adapting to the evolving roles of the 21st-century internet and personalized experiences.