iPhone App Helps Make Art More Accessible

Art lovers using iPhones and iPods now have a free application that's all about their creative interest. At least for those in the Memphis, Tenn., area, that is.

ArtsMemphis, an organization that focuses on promoting and supporting performance and visual artists, has launched an interactive software program that provides iPhone/iPod users with a calendar for keeping track of upcoming events. It can also help art lovers keep up with local area events happening in Memphis.

"This is truly a first, not only for Memphis but for the global arts community," said ArtsMemphis president and CEO Susan Schadt, in a press statement provided to Tonic. "The concept was born out of the larger audience development initiative to continue to make the arts more accessible, and the app does exactly that."

The group, which estimates there are about 300,000 iPhone and iPod touch fans in the city, hopes it will spur greater support and event attendance.

"Audience members are making more last-minute purchasing decisions when it comes to attending events," stated Schadt. "The app makes it very easy for people to find out what is going on based on what they are looking for — theatre, music, free events, and more. This will have great appeal for people living in Memphis and especially visitors to Memphis."

The software even includes features such as Google mapping for finding a location as well as the ability to post reviews and share art news using social network tools like Twitter and Facebook.

"The easier it is for folks to find out what is happening in our active arts scene, the more likely they are to check it out," said Opera Memphis artistic and general director Michael Ching, in a release. "ArtsMemphis' app is going to be handy for keeping tabs on what's going on around town. I can't wait to download it."Photo courtesy of ArtsMemphis (via The Guarisco Group, LLC)