WeWard Partners With Richard Orlinski To Promote Walking Through Art

In a groundbreaking move aimed at transforming the way people engage with their physical activity, WeWard, a popular walking application, has unveiled a partnership with renowned contemporary artist Richard Orlinski. Announced on March 26, 2025, this collaboration sets out to make walking not only rewarding, but also an interactive artistic experience.

Founded in 2019 by Nicolas Hardy, Tanguy de La Villegeorges, and Yves Benchimol, WeWard has made a significant impact, boasting nearly 20 million users across 29 countries, with 60% of its user base located in France. The app rewards individuals for walking by converting their steps into points that can be redeemed for cash or charitable donations. To date, WeWard has returned an impressive 20 million euros to users through performance rewards, emphasizing its commitment to promoting healthier lifestyles through simple daily activities.

As part of the new initiative, WeWard users will have the unique opportunity to collect seven exclusive digital cards featuring Orlinski's iconic sculptures. These cards will be obtainable over a period of 30 days, starting on the partnership's announcement day. Additionally, participants who complete the challenge will earn 50 Wards—WeWard's point currency—and a 20% discount on purchases made from Richard Orlinski’s website.

“By working with Richard Orlinski, we are adding a new dimension to our mission of combining movement and artistic expression to inspire the greatest number of people,” said Yves Benchimol, co-founder and CEO of WeWard. This collaboration aims not only to reward users for their daily steps but also to encourage them to explore their urban environment while engaging with art.

Orlinski, recognized as the best-selling contemporary artist in the world, commented on this partnership, stating, “The idea is based on the concept of rarity and exclusivity, which is at the core of my work.” His commitment to making art accessible is particularly significant in a world where many perceive high art as elitist. Orlinski emphasizes the need for partnerships that democratize art, noting, “This collaboration with WeWard aligns with my goal of making art more accessible.” This synergy showcases how art and technology can create communal engagement through shared activities.

The initiative speaks to a larger concern regarding global health; the World Health Organization (WHO) recently indicated that 31% of adults and 80% of adolescents do not meet the minimum recommendations for physical activity. Sedentary behavior has become a significant issue, leading to chronic health conditions such as diabetes, anxiety, and cardiovascular problems. WeWard's strategy to combat this trend participates in the wellness conversation on a larger scale, bridging art and physical movement to attract a diverse array of users, from young people to seniors.

While WeWard’s core audience is largely young—thanks to its significant presence on platforms like TikTok—there are also notable numbers of older users. Many are motivated by different factors including financial gains, health benefits, or simply the joy of walking. This demographic diversity emphasizes that promoting physical activity can resonate across ages, encouraging various communities to come together for a common cause.

With the involvement of Venus Williams, who serves as an ambassador and investor for WeWard, the brand is significantly bolstering its visibility while aiming to expand into the U.S. market. This strategic alliance with high-profile figures enhances the app’s relatability and appeal.

Looking ahead, both Orlinski and WeWard express strong ambitions for this partnership. “This partnership is a fantastic opportunity to combine these two worlds,” stated Tanguy de La Villegeorges, emphasizing that both art enthusiasts and WeWard users can benefit from this collaboration. This operation offers a unique platform for integrating the appreciation of art into everyday routines, allowing people to engage with both physical activity and culture.

In conclusion, the collaboration between WeWard and Richard Orlinski embodies a forward-thinking approach towards public health and access to art. By encouraging users to walk more while rewarding them with artistic experiences, the venture not only promotes movement but also innovatively addresses contemporary lifestyle challenges. It signals a shift in how fitness applications can intertwine with broader cultural and social movements, fostering a healthier and more engaged community.