Trust the Artist and the Painting : Factors that can enhance the Experience of Viewing Art in 3D Environments

Abstract: Buying and viewing art has gone from being a traditionally physical experience to becoming digital. Due to limitations in today's two-dimensional e-commerce websites, 3D technology can be used to simulate the physical experience as much as possible. This thesis studies which factors can potentially play an important role in online art purchases, of which trust on the artist, familiarity to the artist and understanding more in depth the painting techniques were found to be the most influential on enhancing the viewers experience and engagement with a painting viewed online. These factors were later implemented in a 3D exhibition. Interaction, video, light, spatial perception and interior design contributed to a more holistic experience of art in a 3D environment. A conceptual model is then proposed to offer users as realistic and applied experience as possible that can also contribute to a greater willingness to buy art online.