Greetings from Juergen
Hi there,
In this edition of "The Intersect," we've got a mix of stories that show how technology and art are shaking things up together. We look at how digital tech is changing the way we experience art, the role of machine learning in creativity, and the history of music piracy.
Plus, there's a quirky piece about an art installation in London that invites you to dance on musical graves. Yes, you read that right!
I hope these stories give you something to ponder and maybe even a chuckle or two.
The Intersect: Art In Tech
Data Driven Art
The Role of Machine Learning in AI Art: Tools and Techniques Explained
Machine learning is reshaping art, offering artists innovative tools to explore and create. This TechBullion article, "The Role of Machine Learning in AI Art: Tools and Techniques Explained," dives into how algorithms like Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs) and style transfers are changing the creative process.
Initially, I found the article a bit light. However, as I read further, I realized it covers some lesser-known technologies, like GANs and style transfers, that I wasn't familiar with. This made the read insightful, bridging a gap in my understanding of these advanced techniques.
"I thought this article might be a bit fluffy at first, but then I realized that I don't know many of the tech discussed, such as 'Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs)' or 'Style Transfers'. So, from that perspective, it was worth the read."
For anyone keen on the merging worlds of art and tech, it's a worthwhile exploration.
techbullion.com
Technology in Music
How the Music Industry Learned to Love Piracy
Elizabeth Nelson's article in The New York Times, "How Music Got Free," examines the seismic shift caused by music piracy. The Paramount+ documentary paints early file-sharers as digital Robin Hoods who took on a bloated industry.
"Depending on your perspective, it is either a delightful yarn about the money-changers in the temple getting their due or a long, sad narrative about corporations and consumers banding together to deprive artists of a fair wage."
Yes, it's a compelling narrative. But should we glorify piracy? It disrupted an unfair system, but it also stripped artists of their income.
nytimes.com
Photography
7 Photography Films that Go Beyond the Frame
Photography finds its way into our lives in various forms, but the ALL ARTS article goes deeper. It highlights seven films that explore the photographers themselves, their processes, and the stories behind iconic images. From Robert Frank’s “The Americans” to the unexpected journey of Vivian Maier’s work, these films are a treasure trove for anyone interested in the art and craft of photography.
As an ex-photographer, I hilariously (stupidly) misinterpreted the title, clicking through thinking it referred to Agfa, Kodak, or Fuji camera films. It's a sign of my age in this digital world! Instead, these films have now become my new photo watchlist, a fascinating journey into the lives and works of legendary photographers.
"These films provide an in-depth look at the motivations, struggles, and philosophies of photographers who have significantly influenced the medium."
This video playlist is now my go-to for understanding the profound impact of photography through the lens of those who shaped it.
allarts.org
AI in Visual Arts
Beyond the Canvas, Technology’s Influence on Modern Art
Dereck Mangus's recent article on The Artblog dives into the intricate relationship between technology and art, tracing influences from Degas to Duchamp to today's AI-generated art. Mangus's reflections take us through historical shifts, showing how new tech has continuously reshaped artistic landscapes.
My take mirrors this sentiment. I often think back on photography and its disruptive influence on the art world when it was the new craze. Impressionism, for instance, might have been a protest against the clarity of photography, pushing painters to capture the essence rather than the detail.
"AI will surely lead contemporary artists to make similar discoveries," Mangus notes, drawing a parallel to how Degas used photographs as sketches for paintings.
Now, I wonder what the equivalent of AI-generated art will be in the future. Just as photography revolutionized art, AI too will push boundaries, perhaps leading to unforeseen art forms that challenge our current understanding.
theartblog.org
Societal Impact of Art and Tech
Claire Bishop and Simon Wu on The Evolving Artworld
Jenny Wu's article in The Washington Post examines how digital tech is changing our engagement with art. She reviews Claire Bishop's "Disordered Attention" and Simon Wu's "Dancing on My Own." Bishop notes that smartphones and social media have altered our focus in museums and art spaces, while Wu critiques the art world's structure through personal essays, reflecting on digital culture's impact on identity.
“As memes, fashion, crowds, and trending all indicate, we instinctively pay attention to what others pay attention to,” Bishop states, highlighting a collective shift in art consumption.
My take: Both books thoughtfully curate how tech, AI, smartphones, and social media have changed cultural engagement. Their insights are timely, given our digital lives. Bishop and Wu offer a comprehensive view of the evolving art-tech landscape.
washingtonpost.com
What if Women Ruled the World?
Judy Chicago's exhibition "Revelations" recently took center stage at the Serpentine North gallery, as reported by The Art Newspaper. This event was marked not only by Chicago's visionary work but also by a lively panel discussion exploring the theme, "What if Women Ruled the World?" The gathering featured prominent figures like Chris Bayley and Aleksandra Artamonovskaja, blending art and technology in a unique showcase.
The standout aspect of this event was the interactive element, inviting attendees to record video responses to Chicago's participatory quilt, a collaboration with Pussy Riot's Nadya Tolokonnikova. This approach engages audiences beyond passive observation, challenging them to actively contribute their perspectives. The distribution of digital participation tokens via the Tezos blockchain further emphasizes this innovative interaction.
"We are so accustomed to passively consuming artworks that the concept of recording video responses to a piece of art feels both innovative and strange."
Such immersive experiences in art are an interesting approach to fostering deeper connections with audiences. Will they successfully change our art consumption behavior in the long term?
theartnewspaper.com
Interactive Art
London's Musical Graves: Dance on Tombstones in Grimaldi Park - Boing Boing
In a recent article by Popkin on Boing Boing, we explore an intriguing art installation in Joseph Grimaldi Park, London. "An Invitation to Dance on the Grave" by Henry Krokatsis features two metal "musical graves" that play notes when stepped on. These graves honor the legacies of English clown Joseph Grimaldi and composer Charles Dibdin.
This installation evokes a scene from the movie "Big" with Tom Hanks, where he dances on the piano at F.A.O. Schwartz, an iconic NYC toy store that has since closed its 5th Ave location.
"When stepped upon, the graves chime musical notes. The tiles are even tuned to allow visitors to play 'Hot Codlins,' a song famously popularized by Grimaldi."
This playful yet macabre installation offers a unique way to engage with history and art, lifting spirits while possibly stirring up the surrounding ones. Mind you, no-one is actually buried under the instrument...
boingboing.net
Personal Projects
The Marvelous and Monstrous Reality of Being a New York Artist
Marin Kosut’s book, Art Monster: On the Impossibility of New York, explores the challenging realities artists face in New York City amidst the pressures of capitalism and social media. Hyperallergic provides insights into how Kosut subverts scholarly conventions, blending personal narratives with artist interviews to depict the city's complex art scene.
Reflecting on my own journey, I recall starting my artistic career in New York City during the late '80s, living in a Greenpoint loft. Back then, the city was the place to be for emerging artists. However, like many, I found the path to recognition and financial stability daunting, eventually transitioning to a career in technology.
"When I was starting out my 'Artistic Career' as a photographer in the late 80's, the only place you wanted to do that was New York City."
This book resonates with those who understand the unique challenges and allure of pursuing art in such a demanding environment.
hyperallergic.com
Digital Archiving and Art Preservation
Andy Warhol's Lost Amiga Art Found
Andy Warhol's rediscovered Amiga artworks, found decades after their creation, were detailed in an article by dfarq.homeip.net. This story underscores significant concerns about the preservation of digital art. The fate of artists' websites and digital marketplaces posthumously raises important questions.
Our digital creations face an uncertain future. Just as Warhol's pieces were nearly lost, so too could modern digital art vanish.
"How many artists' websites and digital marketplaces will survive after their death, I wonder? What will happen to all of our creations that only ever existed in a digital realm."
Reflecting on this, it's clear that the art world needs more robust strategies for preserving digital works. For example, where can I sign up for my own published photography series to survive, for at least a decade or so after my own demise? I will have to research this a bit...
dfarq.homeip.net
Future Trends in Art and Tech
Championing Art and Technology Integration
Knight Foundation's recent announcement, as detailed by Art News, highlights their commitment to integrating art and technology. Their open calls aim to support artists in selected cities, fostering innovation through the Knight Art + Tech Expansion Fund and Knight New Work.
Our take? The 2024 Art + Tech Expansion Fund is an exciting opportunity for artists to explore new mediums. This initiative provides essential funding and infrastructure, enabling creatives to push the boundaries of art and technology. It’s a significant step towards merging artistic vision with technological advancements, creating a richer cultural landscape.
"Investing in these areas is central to their mission to build stronger, better-informed, and more engaged communities."
Keep an eye on this space—Knight Foundation’s efforts are shaping a future where creativity and technology thrive together.
artnews.com
