Dallas-based artist Alli Koch of Alli K Design, known for her floral mural work found across the U.S., partnered with Groove Jones to create an immersive augmented reality (AR) experience at the Dallas Arboretum. Titled Blooming Pathway, the goal was to extend the impact of the mural beyond static visuals, transforming it into an interactive, digital experience that engages visitors while maintaining the integrity of the original artwork.
From Traditional Physical to an Immersive Digital Experience
By scanning a QR code near the mural, visitors unlock an AR experience where animated butterflies emerge, fluttering alongside them as they explore the tunnel near the Northeast parking garage. Designed for seamless accessibility, the AR activation works across iOS and Android devices, leveraging universal AR USDZ and GLB file formats. Visitors scan the QR code on the mural wall to initiate the AR interaction, bringing the mural to life in real-time.
Once activated, the space is filled with dozens of monarch butterflies that visitors can follow as they walk along the tunnel. The butterflies guide guests along the path throughout the entire space. The mural includes the same monarch butterflies that we digitized and animated.
To enhance the experience, we incorporated sound design to create a multi-sensory journey. A built-in photo and video capture feature encouraged social sharing, allowing visitors to document and share their AR moments directly from the platform.
Design & Execution
Alli K’s mural transforms the Arboretum’s tunnel into a lush, botanical escape, featuring vibrant flowers contrasted with intricate black-and-white blooms. The addition of AR butterflies elevates the mural from a two-dimensional artwork to a dynamic, ever-evolving installation, deepening the visitor’s engagement.
Groove Jones developed a dedicated web page to host the AR experience, ensuring a frictionless user journey. To measure impact, Google Analytics was integrated to track visitor interactions, with hosting provided for twelve months post-launch.
Impact & Conclusion
The AR Experience, Blooming Pathway, significantly enhanced visitor interaction at the Dallas Arboretum, transforming the mural into an interactive, shareable experience. By integrating a digital layer, the installation generated excitement, encouraged social sharing and extended the reach of the artwork beyond the garden. This collaboration between Alli K Design and Groove Jones redefined how audiences engage with public art, demonstrating the power of WebAR in merging physical and digital storytelling. The project stands as a compelling example of how technology can breathe new life into artistic expression, leaving visitors with a truly unforgettable encounter.
Learn More About Alli Koch
As a Dallas-based artist, Alli specializes in crisp mural designs that can be found painted across the United States. With her skillset and years of experience, Alli has transformed her creativity and passion into a full-time, self-made career, earning her national recognition in the art world. She is a published author of 12 books and counting, including How to Draw Modern Florals and How to Draw All the Things for Kids, aiming to inspire others to explore art and illustration. Additionally, Alli uses her platform as a career artist to speak about business and entrepreneurship, whether on panels around the country or on her podcast, Breakfast with Sis, which she records with her dad on Saturday mornings. Alli K Design website – https://allikdesign.com/
