This week I’m reviewing Weird Cuts. Weird Cuts is a free app created by Zach Lieberman and Molmol Kuo with the support of Google Arts & Culture. It allows users to collage photographic elements into augmented reality. There are two modes of working: cutout and collage. In cutout mode, users collect a variety of collage pieces by taking photographs that are cut into different shapes. This is akin to using scissors to cut out images from magazines or photographs in traditional collage. In collage mode, users then arrange their pieces into three-dimensional space. This correlates to gluing or pasting down images onto a conventional collage substrate. The resulting work is a digital collage in augmented reality which can be exported to the device in video format.
Intended Use: The app is intended for making art.
Target Audience: The app is listed as being appropriate for ages 4 and up. Younger children may require the support of an adult to learn how to use the app at first but can navigate it independently after that.
Usability: The interface is easy to navigate with a touch screen. The app allows users to create short videos which can be saved to the device directly. A limited number of “cuts” are stored in the app.
Cost: The app is free and there are no advertisements.
Technical Requirements: Available on iOS or Android smart devices.
Pro’s: The app is easy to use, engaging, fun, supports creative expression, and is free of charge. The app pre-cuts images so this can make collage accessible to people who cannot use scissors safely (due to dexterity issues, risk of self-harm, etc.). Since users need to create collage pieces from images in their environment it may encourage them to create new items to photograph (such as drawings, paintings, sculptures, etc.) or explore their the outside world.
Con’s: The app allows for only short video clips to be recorded. If you have a longer project in mind you would have to make multiple clips and stitch them together in another app (e.g. iMovie).
Is it worth it? This app is worth your time and attention. It can be used to make stand-alone video clips or incorporated into larger video or multi-media projects. The app could be used for either entertainment or therapeutic purposes.
Video made with Weird Cuts