Richard MacDonald Atelier
The term Atelier describes a workshop or studio used by an artist. However, Richard MacDonald Atelier expands on this definition even further. It’s a creative enterprise–a place of education, collaboration, and mentorship. A select group of apprentices and artisans, led by Richard MacDonald, create Atelier pieces by hand. This unique collection of smaller-scaled bronze works allows the beauty of his art to reach wider audiences.
About the Project
Richard MacDonald Atelier features pieces from his collected masterworks in smaller Atelier sizes. In order to reach customers during COVID, the Artist decided to offer collectors of contemporary, figurative art an opportunity to buy his work directly online.
My Role
This project began in March 2020. I acted as the Project Manager, User Researcher, and UX Designer. The website was launched in May 2020.
Project Challenge
How do I organize artworks in a way that simulates the art gallery experience?
My Design Process
Key Focus
Research & Define & Ideate & Visual Design
Project Summary
Due to the confidentiality of my work at Richard MacDonald Studios, all customer information, preliminary research, and design planning are considered proprietary. However, I can speak at a high level about the project.
We designed a new website showcasing 80+ Atelier sculptures and paintings. Artworks were organized based on medium (i.e. sculpture, lithographs, serigraphs, archival prints, and books). Sculptures were then sorted by the genre (i.e. subject matter) of inspiration. Product pages were designed to showcase valuable information about each piece including: edition size, patina, photography, 360 video, story, and pricing.
Reflection
This project was challenging due to the content gathering and management required for all the artwork.
In a time when galleries were closed and art collectors were staying home, this website allowed us to bring the gallery experience to them. We were able to continue producing an alternative source of revenue as a result of my team’s efforts. As activity and demand increased on the website, we were able to bring back our gallery staff to leverage the website as a sales tool.
To view the Richard MacDonald Atelier website, you can visit https://atelierrichardmacdonald.com/.