In recent years, digital art has become massively popular as technology continues to advance. Now one of the most popular art mediums, digital art has made great strides since its development in the late 1900s.
It all began in the mid-20th century when people like Ben Laposky and Frieder Nake experimented with analog electronic machines and mathematical algorithms to create abstract patterns. Their work laid the basis for what would later become a revolution in the art world. In the 1960s, as computer graphics became an official academic discipline, artists began collaborating with scientists and engineers to use computers as creative tools. They used programming languages to generate intricate visual compositions, showcasing the fusion of art and technology.
In the 1970s, pixel art rose to prominence as artists worked with the limited resolution of early computers and video game consoles to create compelling visuals using minimalistic, blocky designs. Technology continued to advance in the 1980s and 1990s with the rise of graphics software, such as MacPaint and Deluxe Paint, which allowed artists to digitally paint using electronic brushes and colors, simulating traditional painting techniques.
In the late 20th century, the film industry was revolutionized by the rise of 3D art and animation. As computers became more powerful, artists and animators explored the realm of computer-generated imagery (CGI), making it possible to create lifelike characters and breathtaking environments. Pixar’s “Toy Story” famously showcased the potential of digital animation in 1995, providing artists with new ways to engage and captivate audiences as they explored 3D art.
The creation of the internet in the late 1990s and early 2000s further accelerated the evolution of digital art. Artists now had a global platform to showcase their work, connect with other creatives, and engage with a vast audience.
As digital art became more popular, new technologies were created for the specific purpose of drawing, including drawing tablets, pressure-sensitive stylus pens, and various drawing software. These tools allow artists to mimic the feel of traditional drawing supplies while still being able to play around with the power that technology provides, such as experimenting with different brush styles, drawing incredibly intricate artworks, etc. Digital art is also extremely versatile; people can use it to design characters, animate scenes, create comics, and more.
Even more recently, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to generate art has become increasingly popular–and increasingly controversial. These AI algorithms can analyze vast amounts of data and learn to replicate artistic style and generate original pieces. However, this development has sparked discussions about the ethics of using AI, and if it can truly be considered “art.”
Digital art continues to grow in popularity as it becomes more accessible to the public, and continues to evolve as new technologies and techniques emerge, promising new revelations in the art world.
Sources:
- https://www.vectornator.io/blog/digital-art/
- https://www.artplacer.com/what-is-digital-art-the-history-and-value-of-an-evolving-concept/
- https://magazine.artland.com/digital-art/#:~:text=Although%20the%20first%20digital%20art,and%2C%20especially%20the%20latter%2C%20envisioning
- https://www.vam.ac.uk/articles/digital-art
