Alabama's Largest Hand-Painted Augmented Reality Mural

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Main Street, Inc., a financial industry player specializing in check provision and payroll services, commissioned Alabama's largest hand-painted augmented reality (AR) mural in the dynamic city of Birmingham. In partnership with local artist Megan McCullum of Blank Space Bham, the project was envisioned to celebrate the powerful women of Alabama, under the theme "Steel Magnolias."

Project Overview

Main Street, Inc., a financial industry player specializing in check provision and possibly payroll services, commissioned Alabama's largest hand-painted augmented reality (AR) mural in the dynamic city of Birmingham. In partnership with local artist Megan McCullum of Blank Space Bham, the project was envisioned to celebrate the powerful women of Alabama, under the theme "Steel Magnolias."

Artistic and Community Involvement

Megan McCullum, known for involving community members in her projects, led the creation of this mural, featuring prominent Alabamian women including Helen Keller, Rosa Parks, Coretta Scott King, and Harper Lee. At the heart of the mural is a contemporary woman figure, symbolizing the modern-day viewer amidst these historical icons. The mural is extensive, measuring approximately 240ft in length, and integrates four to five AR experiences within the Electrify app.

Objectives and AR Experience

Main Street, Inc. sought to utilize their prominent wall space in a busy part of town to affirm their Alabamian roots and highlight their predominantly female-driven company. The AR component aimed to connect historical figures with today's youth, making these iconic women relevant and inspiring for current and future generations.

The AR experience, designed to be both entertaining and educational, features intricate art details like native Alabama flowers and a quilt pattern inspired by the G's Bend quilters. Users can interact with each woman's portrait to discover their stories and famous quotes. A licensed video of Helen Keller, obtained in collaboration with the Helen Keller Institute for the Blind, enriches the experience further.

Measurement of Success and Impact

Success metrics for the mural are being tracked through the Electrify app, focusing on downloads in Alabama. Press coverage during and post the mural's painting, along with the launch of the AR experience, has generated significant attention. A comprehensive collection of press articles, photos, and videos is being compiled for detailed impact assessment.

Additional Social Media Integration

To amplify social awareness, elements from the mural were adapted into an Instagram face filter. This creative strategy allows individuals to virtually place themselves among these influential figures, symbolically becoming a part of "Steel Magnolias." This initiative showcases the versatility of AR technology in repurposing 3D assets and animations across various platforms, extending the mural's impact beyond its physical location.

Conclusion

Alabama's largest hand-painted AR mural, "Steel Magnolias," stands as a testament to the rich history and influential women of Alabama. It's a blend of art, technology, and history, aimed at inspiring current and future generations through an immersive, interactive experience. The project is not only a significant cultural landmark but also a pioneering example of how AR can bridge historical legacies with modern-day relevance and engagement.