Digital art, simply put, is art made in the digital age. Digital art has been around for decades, some would say since the 1950s, however, it has only in the past 10 years or so been lauded for its originality and thus displayed in prestigious art museums around the world.
One of the first forms of digital art, pioneered by artists in the 1950s, involved creating oscilloscope art using waveform electric signals. The instrument was embraced by many in the field and experimentation meant that various waveform art pieces were created.
Between then and now, however, technology has advanced at a rapid pace meaning that artists have had many different platforms and devices upon which to create their art. Digital art in the modern-day presents itself in various forms including video, photographic, 3D and tablet art to name a few.
The rising popularity of and fame of digital artists come as no surprise as the internet and social media mean that these people have extensive means by which to reach new crowds and cultivate a fanbase for themselves, through their art.
Criticisms
Many art critics have refused to acknowledge the rising trend of digital art as a form of true artistry. As explained above traditional art museums failed to display and present digital art until about 15 years ago relying rather upon traditional art forms to decorate their exhibits.
The basis for this non-recognition is that creating art through digital means is deemed as inauthentic and viewed as an easy way to create art.
Traditional art has been argued to require more toil and creativity and should thus be exhibited in traditional art museums instead.
However, the situation is changing rapidly as the modern world comes to terms with the shifting and expanding technological mediums through which art can be presented.
Digital illustrations, videos, and portraits (as well as more abstract forms of digital art) are now adorning the walls of traditional art museums around the world.
The popularity and admiration of digital art do not seem to be diminishing any time soon as social media now hosts many artists and forms of art to be revered by anyone, from any part of the world. Digital art is clearly created for any and all.
Most Popular Types of Digital Art
Dynamic Painting:
Undoubtedly one of the most advanced forms of digital art, dynamic painting describes the process by which a computer paints a picture without any need for physical labour. Often times the picture will evolve and have moving pieces that are all coded in through the creativity and imagination of the artist. This form of art requires coding ability and thus creative expression through this medium must be applauded for its accuracy and mental effort.
Pixel Art:
This form of art is mostly used in the creation of video games and animated movies or videos. Arguably the most popular form of modern digital art, the aesthetics for this art style derive from 8-bit and 16-bit computers and video game consoles. The style has been revolutionised and is now seen in many post-2020 video games and movies, despite its retro look.
