The Kiyose Museum of Modern Art has introduced an experimental audio guide with an unusual personality.

Instead of giving formal explanations, the device offers surprisingly honest opinions about the artwork.

In front of a large blue painting, it says, “The artist described this as a study of loneliness. I thought it was the ocean until five minutes ago.”

Visitors have reacted positively. Many say the guide makes contemporary art feel less intimidating.

“I usually pretend to understand everything,” one visitor admitted. “The guide pretends nothing.”

The system was trained to use simple language, but a software error removed several polite phrases. Museum staff decided to keep the mistake for one week.

Not every artist is pleased. One sculptor complained after the guide described his metal work as “a chair that has made several poor decisions.”

The museum has added a warning at the entrance. Visitors can choose the honest mode or the traditional mode.

So far, the honest mode is selected four times more often.

Staff are now checking whether the guide can discuss art without starting arguments in the gift shop.