Freshmind.

Contemporary art, being dynamic and ever-evolving, often reflects the current state of society and culture. It can express the zeitgeist of its time, often embracing new ideas and innovations. One such innovation is digital technology, which has brought about new modes of creation and presentation in the art world. But how does digital art fit within the realm of contemporary art ? Let’s explore this intersection.

What is Digital Art ?

Digital art is a genre that encompasses works created using digital technology. This can range from digital painting and animation to virtual reality experiences and even artificial intelligence-based creations. The digital realm offers artists a vast scope for experimentation, pushing the boundaries of what can be considered ‘art’.

The Intersection of Contemporary Art and Digital Technology

With the advent of digital technology, contemporary art has seen an influx of new mediums and techniques. Artists like David Hockney have incorporated digital methods into their work, creating art on tablets. Other artists, like Ian Cheng or Petra Cortright, have based their practices entirely within the digital realm, creating engaging pieces of digital art. This seamless integration of digital technology showcases the adaptability of contemporary art.

The Validity of Digital Art as Contemporary Art

Despite the increasing presence of digital art, debates have arisen about its acceptance within the broader art world. Some critics question the longevity and authenticity of digital works. However, major institutions like the Museum of Modern Art and Tate Modern have begun including digital art in their collections, acknowledging its role in the contemporary art sphere. Moreover, the sale of Beeple’s digital artwork as a non-fungible token (NFT) for $69 million at Christie’s auction house marked a significant moment for digital art in the mainstream art market.

Embracing the Digital in Contemporary Art

In conclusion, contemporary art does not shy away from innovation but rather evolves to accommodate it. Digital technology has opened new frontiers in creativity, allowing artists to break free from traditional confines. As such, contemporary art can undoubtedly be digital, as it continues to reflect our increasingly digitized society. From this perspective, we can look forward to seeing how artists will harness these technologies in novel and exciting ways in the future.