Critical Writing Index

Renderings of Digital Art

by Christiane Paul

The MIT Press, 2002, v. 35, no. 5, pp. 471-474+476-484

This essay identifies the current qualifier of choice, "new media," by explaining how this term is used to describe digital art in various forms. Establishing a historical context, the author highlights the pioneer exhibitions and artists who began working with new technology and digital art as early as the late 1960s and early 1970s. The article proceeds to articulate the shapes and forms of digital art, recognizing its broad range of artistic practice: music, interactive installation, installation with network components, software art, and purely internet-based art. The author examines the themes and narratives specific to her selection of artwork, specifically interactive digital installations and net art. By addressing these forms, the author illustrates the hybrid nature of this medium and the future of this art practice.

ITEM 2002.200 – available for viewing in the Research Centre

Videos, Artworks and Artists Cited

A-Volve – Andy Warhol

A-Volve – Robert Rauschenberg

Genesis – Jean Tinguely

Giver of Names – John Cage

Pockets Full of Memories – Jasper Johns

Timetable – Jack Burhnham

Carnivore – Christa Sommerer

Glasbead – Laurent Mignonneau

Eduardo Kac

David Rokeby

George LeGrady

Perry Hoberman

Alex Galloway

John Klima