Augmented Reality Applications for Interactive Public Art Engagement

Thesis Abstract

The revitalization and engagement of public spaces through art increasingly leverage technological innovations, yet the integration of Augmented Reality (AR) into public art remains underexplored in terms of its potential to enhance interactive experiences and community participation. This study aims to investigate the design, implementation, and reception of AR applications tailored for public art environments, with the objective of developing an effective model to facilitate meaningful engagement between the public and urban artworks. The specific objectives include identifying barriers and enablers to AR adoption in public art, evaluating user experiences with AR-enabled artworks, and proposing frameworks for sustainable AR integration in public spaces. A mixed-methods research design underpins the study, combining qualitative explorations with quantitative assessment to deliver comprehensive insights. The research population encompasses urban residents and visitors aged 18-65 within metropolitan areas that have integrated AR public art installations. A stratified random sampling technique selected 300 participants for quantitative surveys, supplemented by 20 in-depth interviews with art curators, technology developers, and community stakeholders to contextualize findings. Data collection instruments include structured questionnaires measuring user engagement, perceived ease of use, aesthetic appreciation, and technological familiarity, alongside semi-structured interview protocols. The quantitative data will be analyzed using SPSS, employing descriptive statistics, correlation analyses, and multiple regression to determine factors influencing user engagement with AR-enabled public art. Thematic analysis will be performed on qualitative interview transcripts to identify recurring themes related to challenges, perceptions, and opportunities associated with AR integration. To further enhance the theoretical understanding, the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) frameworks will guide the interpretation of adoption factors, while Vygotsky’s Social Development Theory will underpin analyses of community-driven interactions. It is anticipated that findings will demonstrate a positive correlation between intuitive AR interfaces and levels of public engagement, with usability and aesthetic appeal serving as significant predictors. Moreover, certain barriers—such as technological literacy and infrastructural issues—are expected to limit broader uptake, while community involvement and participatory design are identified as critical enablers for sustainable integration. These insights will inform a conceptual framework illustrating how AR can be optimized to foster inclusive and dynamic community interactions with public art. This research makes a significant contribution to the evolving intersection of arts, technology, and community development by providing an empirically grounded model for implementing AR in public spaces. It advances theoretical understandings of technology acceptance within cultural contexts and offers practical insights for artists, urban planners, and technologists seeking to harness AR’s potential for social enrichment. The main conclusion underscores that successful AR integration hinges on user-centered design, infrastructural support, and proactive community engagement. Accordingly, the study recommends strategic stakeholder collaboration, iterative prototype testing, and targeted digital literacy programs to maximize the impact of AR in public art settings. In summary, this research elucidates the pathways and challenges of utilizing AR applications to transform public art into interactive, participatory experiences, thereby fostering stronger community bonds and enhancing urban cultural landscapes. Future studies are encouraged to explore longitudinal impacts of AR public art and to develop scalable models for diverse cultural and geographic contexts.