The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York has launched its first Web3-based experience, a new blockchain-powered smartphone game called Art Links.
As the game’s name suggests, players can identify common threads and connections between more than 140 works of art from across the Met’s collection.
Designed in partnership with the art and technology platform TRLab, Art Links is a mobile-first, browser-based, blockchain-powered game that releases new challenges weekly.
It offers an innovative way to engage with the museum, and allows users to collect special in-game NFT badges and win in-person and digital rewards. These include discounts at the Met Store, as well as private, curator-led tours.
“This groundbreaking online game is an exciting first for the Met and a singular experience in the museum field at large,” said Max Hollein, the Met’s director and CEO.
“By bringing works of art from collections across the museum – from modern and contemporary art to Asian to Egyptian art – players can broaden their engagement and understanding of culture and creativity in a fun and compelling way.
“Art Links truly exemplifies how the Met continues to connect audiences to ideas and to one another while exploring emerging technology.”
Works of art featured in the game were selected by Destinee Filmore, assistant curator in the department of modern and contemporary art, and a cross-disciplinary team from across the museum’s collection.
Audrey Ou, co-founder and CEO of TRLab, said: “As a company at the forefront of art and technology, we’re committed to creating new ways for audiences to discover, engage, and immerse themselves in art and culture.
Met’s first Web3-based experience
“Partnering with the Met on its first Web3 experience reflects our belief that deepening connections between creators, collectors, and fans is the future of art.
“We’re combining digital innovation with artistic expression to create truly transformative experiences.”
While Art Links is the museum’s first blockchain-powered experience, the Met has previously created digital offerings using technologies such as augmented reality (AR).
In 2023, the institution launched an app called Replica that let guests turn artworks into virtual accessories in the Roblox online game.
Images courtesy of the Met and TRLab
