ArtLoom: Bridging Emerging Artists and New Collectors

Innovative mobile app redefines art discovery and connection

ArtLoom addresses a significant gap in the art world: the disconnect between emerging artists seeking exposure and collectors eager to discover new talent. Traditional platforms often prioritize established names, leaving newcomers to navigate crowded social media spaces. Tianyi Qi’s vision for ArtLoom was to create a dedicated, user-friendly environment where both groups can interact effortlessly, inspired by the seamless engagement found in popular social and dating apps.

The app’s standout feature is its immersive virtual gallery, which makes discovering art as simple as scrolling through a personalized feed. Users receive a curated daily showcase tailored to their preferences, streamlining the process of finding and appreciating new artwork. This approach not only democratizes art discovery but also empowers artists to present their work in a visually engaging, accessible format.

ArtLoom’s matchmaking hub introduces “dating app”-style profiles for artists, allowing them to share their stories and inspirations. Collectors can explore these narratives, deepening their connection to the art and the creators behind it. This innovative profile system fosters meaningful interactions and helps demystify the art-buying process for newcomers.

Communication is further enhanced by an AI-powered chat assistant, designed to facilitate seamless conversations between artists and collectors. This feature removes barriers often associated with initiating contact, making it easier for users to negotiate, ask questions, and build relationships within the app’s secure environment.

Developed using cross-platform frameworks, robust back-end infrastructure, and advanced image processing technologies, ArtLoom is optimized for iOS devices. Research conducted through digital surveys identified key challenges for both artists and collectors, including pricing strategies, communication hurdles, and platform accessibility. These insights directly informed the app’s design, ensuring a tailored solution that addresses real user needs.

ArtLoom’s innovative approach has earned it the Bronze A' Mobile Technologies, Applications and Software Design Award in 2025, recognizing its creative ingenuity and contribution to a more inclusive, vibrant art market. By simplifying art discovery and fostering genuine connections, ArtLoom sets a new standard for digital art engagement.

ArtLoom exemplifies how thoughtful design and technology can break down barriers in the art world, offering emerging artists and new collectors a platform where creativity and connection flourish. As the art market continues to evolve, solutions like ArtLoom pave the way for a more accessible and dynamic future.