The Intersect: Art in Tech and Tech in Art - The Intersect: Art in Tech and Tech in Art

Greetings from Juergen

Hi all!

This edition of The Intersect continues to explore how art and technology shape each other in practical, impactful ways. We look at the New World Symphony's digital outreach, young artists merging technology with spirituality, and the design legacy of Soviet-era kiosks. You'll also find an appreciation for Bill Viola's contributions to video art.

Take a moment to see how these stories connect art and technology in our everyday lives.

Photography

These Colorful Kiosks Changed the Soviet-Era Landscape

From the 1970s to the 1990s, modular, modernist kiosks appeared across Central and Eastern Europe, as highlighted in a Fast Company article by Hunter Schwarz. These kiosks, captured in the book "Kiosk: The Last Modernist Booths Across Central and Eastern Europe" by Zupagrafika, reveal a unique lens into the region's history and design aesthetic.

I've been working on a personal photography project called "Accidentally Wes Anderson," which involves capturing scenes reminiscent of the filmmaker's distinctive style. This article about vibrant kiosk designs instantly reminded me of that look, with their bright colors and retro-futuristic vibe.

“Despite their modest dimensions, kiosks played a role much larger than the sum of their physical components,” says urban explorer Maciej Czarnecki.

These kiosks are more than just remnants of the past; they symbolize a blend of history and design that continues to inspire.

The Rise of The Camera Launched a Fight to Protect Gilded Age Privacy

In a captivating piece by Smithsonian Magazine, the rise of the camera during the Gilded Age is explored through the lens of privacy violations and technological misunderstanding. The article sheds light on how early photography, popularized by George Eastman's Kodak, led to unanticipated invasions of personal privacy and misuse of images, such as the misuse of Elizabeth Peck's portrait in false advertising.

As a photographer, I find this both amusing and deeply relevant. The early days of photography were marked by a mix of wonder and fear, with some believing cameras could steal their souls. These stories highlight how privacy laws have struggled to keep pace with technological advancements.

"Privacy law, which is often slow to react, never quite catches up to technology, whether it's given one year or 100."

It's a fascinating reminder of the ongoing dance between innovation and regulation.

Film & Video

Bill Viola Made Video Art Ask the Biggest, Most Universal Questions

Bill Viola, who recently passed away at 73, used video to explore profound themes like life, death, and the soul. His work, as detailed in a recent obituary by The Guardian, stood out for its ability to create stillness in a visually saturated world. Viola's art, spanning decades, often delved into near-death experiences and spiritual awakenings, making him a unique figure in the realm of video art.

Having recently visited Stromness in the Orkney Islands, I was particularly struck by a quote from the article:

"After Viola, video and film became ever more present in galleries and museums, yet the use of the moving image in art has become as unfocused, ever-changing and multitudinous as it is in the world all round us."

Viola’s legacy challenges us to think deeply about how we use screens in art today.

Societal Impact of Art and Tech

How Technology Enables Arts Institutions to Reach New Audiences and Expand Access to the Arts

Arts institutions are embracing digital strategies to reach wider audiences, as highlighted in a recent article by Art News. The New World Symphony in Miami Beach exemplifies this shift, using advanced technology to offer live-streamed performances during the pandemic. This move has continued to expand their reach beyond local audiences.

Having just returned from a lengthy trip to the EU, it struck me how different the consumption models for digital and physical art remain. Visiting a museum or gallery offers an immersive experience that VR or AR can't yet replicate. However, these "old school" methods are no longer the only options. Gamers might argue that in-game experiences with 3D glasses can be artful, and projects like the Sphere in Las Vegas are pioneering new immersive art experiences.

"I can't wait to see a future where appreciating digital art doesn't necessarily involve a screen or phone."

The digital realm is opening new avenues for art appreciation, and we are just at the beginning.

Artists Should Exploit Ai’s Capabilities, Say Creators of New Tate Modern Show

Exhibition traces long relationship between artists and technology, a symbiosis that is sure to continue. Catherine Wood, the museum’s director of exhibitions and programs, believes AI is an opportunity, not a threat, as shown in Tate Modern's Electric Dreams exhibition, which opens on November 28 and features over 150 works from 70 artists globally. The Guardian provides full details.

Here again a historical perspective on AI and its potential integration into the artistic process, this time dating back to the 1950s. As Wood emphasizes, the relationship between art and technology is not new but has long been a fertile ground for creativity.

"Humans and artists have been grappling with these questions for a long time so we wanted to give the long view on the social, existential and artistic questions around uses of technology to make art."

This exhibition offers an insightful look into how technology and art have evolved together.

How Young Artists Take Inspiration From Religion in Uncertain Times

In an article by The New York Times, young New York artists are exploring spirituality through their work, incorporating symbols and themes from various religions. These artists, like Chris Lloyd and Rachel Rossin, bring together advanced tech like 3D printing and AI with traditional iconography to ask big questions about existence and service.

One might argue that "taking spiritual matters seriously" has always been a hallmark of the arts. This new wave of artists is no different, blending ancient and modern elements to seek answers in today’s complex world. Their work serves as a bridge between the technological and the spiritual, reminding us that art has long been a medium for grappling with life's fundamental questions.

"Why are we here? Who should we serve?"

The intersection of art and technology continues to offer profound insights into our shared human experience.

Design

Elon Musk Confirms Tesla Robotaxi Delay, Says Front Design Change

Elon Musk has confirmed a delay for Tesla's Robotaxi unveiling, originally set for August 8th, now pushed to October, according to Bloomberg. Musk cited a requested front design change as the reason for the delay, adding that the extra time would allow Tesla to showcase additional features.

Our take is that this so-called "design change" is more of an excuse than a necessity. It’s amusing, but it's hard to see Musk as an artist obsessed with perfecting his creation. Unlike artists who endlessly tweak their work, this seems more like a stalling tactic.

"Design change," in this example, is just an excuse. And a funny one at that. Not that I could ever bring myself to think of Elon Musk as an artist...

Credit to Electrek for the detailed report on this development.

Tech in Art Education

Fifteen Art and Design Projects by The Royal College of Art

Dezeen highlights innovative projects from students at the Royal College of Art, showcasing works that blend art and technology. Among these, a film created using generative AI stands out for its exploration of new media possibilities.

As one might expect, technology features front and center in art projects and exhibitions like this one at the Royal College of Art. I often love exploring student and college projects as a way of connecting with younger artists to see trends and innovations in integrating art and technology in ways that perhaps older folks like myself would not immediately think of.

"I often love exploring student and college projects as a way of connecting with younger artists to see trends and innovations in integrating art and technology in ways that perhaps older folks like myself would not immediately think of."

This exhibition is a terrific example of how students are pushing boundaries and redefining the role of technology in the arts.

The Last Word

Thank you for being part of The Intersect community. Your engagement and feedback are invaluable. I look forward to hearing your thoughts on this edition. If any of these stories resonate with you, please share your insights. Let's keep exploring the intersection of art and technology together.

Stay curious,

Juergen