Art - I came across this as a stand alone Irish name (we're not Irish). I like the meaning. And o like that it's a real name but not common but also not strange.
However a stumbling block would be having friends and family in Essex dropping the 'T'... thoughts?
MEANING: In Ireland a seperate name from Arthur it comes from an ancient word for “”a bear,”” used in the sense of “”outstanding warrior”” or “”champion.”” A pagan High King of Ireland, Art’s rule was so honest that two angels hovered over him in battle.