‘Augmented Art’ combines creativity and technology at San Angelo

SAN ANGELO, Texas. Art is becoming more and more interactive, mainly thanks to the digital world. Whether it’s social media, virtual reality or augmented reality, technology and creativity have reached new levels never seen before.

In San Angelo, Augmented Art is a new project created by Art in Uncommon Places and Central High School students to provide an interactive experience for those in the community.

“It’s just another level, another layer on which people can appreciate art,” said Art in Uncommon Places President Julie Raymond.

Since 2006, the non-profit organization has been creating artwork that can be found at Brush Alley, the Pop Art Museum, Arroyo’s Red Trail, and the North Concho River, according to Raymond.

They recently had the idea to create augmented art and were able to connect with Central High School teacher Scarlet Rodriguez and her graphic design class 2.

Rodriguez first created a trial work, and once it was completed, Raymond realized that her vision could become a reality.

At 6:00 pm on March 2, the first of several expanded works will be on display outside the San Angelo Performing Arts Center, 82 Gillis Street, with more art inside.

“We had a vision to make 10 murals for Art in Uncommon Places 2023,” Raymond said.

“And we’re highlighting these murals… in our show tomorrow night,” she added.

178 artworks from 103 artists will be available for purchase, and most of the creators are connected to the San Angelo community in one way or another.

Nine other augmented works will be created throughout the year, and viewers can download the app and scan a QR code to fully experience the art.

Some compositions are already in progress, including an abstract painting at L & J Roofing, 26 W Washington Drive.

As for Raymond, she hopes it will give the community a chance to experience art in a whole new way.

“It’s an element and a level where I hope that someone who might not go to a museum can come and see something and find out what art is,” she said.

Head to sanangelopac to buy tickets for $25 each.