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2021: Leighton McDonald was recognized at our first ever Lens Fest Awards for his outstanding work using AR as a powerful force for representation with Blacksoul Gallery.

Article Feature: Leighton McDonald - Merging Art and Augmented Reality for Impactful Experiences

This insightful article delves into the creative journey of Leighton McDonald, who began his career in industrial design at Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD). It was at SCAD that Leighton first encountered augmented reality and eventually found himself showcasing a project in London that featured AR-rendered models of underground pipes.

Leighton now balances his artistic pursuits with his work as a trend forecaster for major apparel brands and runs a freelance business creating augmented reality experiences. He is also part of a group of developers working on new experiences for Snapchat's latest Spectacles.

The article highlights Leighton's latest Lens, Blacksoul Gallery, which showcases the work of emerging Black artists both on mobile devices and in augmented reality. This innovative approach transcends traditional museum and gallery walls, reaching new audiences and fostering real-life connections. Leighton's focus on using AR as a force for representation led to him being recognized at the first-ever Lens Fest Awards for his outstanding work with Blacksoul Gallery.

Leighton McDonald's story serves as an inspiration for the limitless potential of merging art, technology, and social impact through augmented reality experiences.