Finnish National Gallery’s new Alusta platform utilizes blockchain technology for publishing, sharing, and collecting digital content such as images, videos, music, podcasts, and texts. The aim is to develop a community where culture and technology converge, according to a press release.
The project is implemented with the support of the Ministry of Education and Culture’s Next Generation EU funding. Through the platform, individuals and communities in the creative sector will have access to tools that enable the publication and sharing of innovative content.
“It is important for museums to be involved in the development of technology while exploring new ways to interact with artists, audiences, and art enthusiasts. We are looking for new means and methods to fulfill the National Gallery’s mission of strengthening cultural heritage and artistic education while participating in the development of the museum sector,” said Kimmo Levä, Director General of the National Gallery.
Publishing and collecting content through Alusta requires a blockchain wallet as the service is built on top of Ethereum blockchain. However, users can enjoy the content completely free through their browser at alusta.art.
However, Alusta is just one part of the Digital National Gallery program. The National Gallery seeks solutions within the program for digitizing museum operations and expanding access to its art collection.
“Alusta is free from geographical boundaries; it is inherently international. We hope that its tools will attract a diverse, innovative, future-oriented community that shapes and expands the field of digital content production,” said Johanna Eiramo, Director of the Digital National Gallery program.
