Art and Technology

 Art and Technology

Figure 1: Nightmarish by H.R. Giger. Taken from https://www.artsy.net/article/artsy-editorial-nightmarish-works-hr-giger-artist-alien

Traditionally, art refers to anything produced through human imagination and creativity. Hence, art involves both simulations of ideas and sensations without involving the senses (imagination) and the transformation of thoughts into real-world experiences and objects (creativity). That is why most people remember individuals such as H.R. Giger, who imagined and painted the first alien creature (see Figure 1). As a result, his imagination inspired the production of alien films. However, digital and computer technologies have changed how people use art to influence the world and society. Today, people have access to computers and mobile applications that make creativity easy. For example, people can edit images or create sketches and videos using mobile phones by following simple steps. This simplicity is among the things people can embrace when describing how technology makes life easier. However, there is no perfect coexistence between technology and art. Technology offers tools that people can use to apply their creative skills. For example, development tools such as Unity allow people to design different video games with unique features. Also, MS Word or Excel allows people to visualize creative ideas through writing or sketching. Although technological tools facilitate creativity, they limit imagination. Any tool comes with limited features based on the imagination of the developer. Therefore, as a designer, you cannot imagine beyond what the tool provides because it will be impossible to visualize any creative idea derived from your unique imagination. That is why people keep changing and updating software to see if they can get one that matches their needs. While any tool can support creativity, none can fit the unique imaginations of every individual. Today, people rely on existing information and sometimes history to create and evaluate creativity. It is time to create a conducive environment for people to apply their imaginations without being hindered by technology.