THE black-and-white image pictured right isn’t a piece of contemporary art – but an example of the Quick Response (QR) codes that have begun appearing in Irish advertising.
The cryptic little designs are now frequently seen, for example, on ads for property.
The pixellated cube is essentially an interactive barcode that can be scanned by a mobile smartphone (just point the camera at it) to instantly access information about a product or service.
To avail of the technology, phone users must have a mobile internet connection and also download a free app.
Dublin’s newest commercial art gallery, The Doorway Gallery which opened at 24 South Frederick Street this week, claims to be the first in the country to use the QR system.
The gallery’s co-owner Denise Donnelly said the codes were already “pretty big in Japan and America” and were becoming more popular in Ireland.
QR codes are being used on the gallery’s invitations, posters and even window signage.
The Doorway’s inaugural exhibition features new paintings of West-of-Ireland stone farmhouses by artist Padraig McCaul.
