A critical inquiry : paintbrush to pixels : developing paradigms in the production and consumption of new media art

• Main Author: Aggersberg, Brett
• Published: University of Wales Trinity Saint David 2017
• Subjects: 709; NX Arts in general
• Online Access: https://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.714854

Art represents our culture, and our current culture is largely dependent on technology. However, artworks created and exhibited with digital technologies have not been as perceptible so far within contemporary arts institutions as traditional analogue art forms. This thesis instigates a critical investigation into the development and values of technology-based art works utilizing qualitative interpretations of the data. Whilst this rapidly changing field is problematic in terms of a conventional conclusion, the principle aim is to explore whether an improved understanding and awareness of new media art is required as a result of the paradigm shift caused via the permeation of digital technologies across art practices. The resulting new methods of production, distribution, and consumption within art require updated models of critical engagement. An appropriate paradigm shift in respect of institutions, curators, and artists will aid the integration and awareness of new media art into the broader art world. Whilst my hypothesis implies an argument for a greater presence of new media art in arts institutions, I conclude however that it is better suited to alternative modes of exhibition, such as festivals, craft labs, and workshops, as a shift from traditional art paradigms means they no longer require traditional structures of display. New media based art would truly benefit from greater awareness through a developed lexicon, education, and reportage. The balance between the institution, and growing trends such as festivals and commercial applications has been identified as key. If art forms utilising new technology do not also utilise the new expressive language it affords, then they will merely be seen as replicating old forms, rather than developing new and revolutionary ones. New media’s role within art is through a progressive discourse, which is still to fully reveal its place and relationship with mainstream contemporary arts. Based on an extensive critical survey and a probing investigation into the current parameters of new media arts this thesis seeks to contribute to that discourse.