Internet art, 'net' art, or e-Art, as it is known, is a form of digital artwork that uses the internet as a medium. When I first viewed the net art on Jason Nelson's site SecretTechnology.com, I was very impressed by the interactive nature and eccentric designs of each of the artworks. What I did not acknowledge, nor even appreciate was the depth of technology comprehension needed to create the artwork. The artwork gives the impression of being 'simple' to create, however, to create net art the artist must understand the function, programming, strengths and limitations of the programs they choose to use, in addition to their creativity and artistic skills.
The use of the internet as a medium provides the opportunity to utilise and apply different techniques, methods and materials in comparison to traditional forms of artwork, such as painting, sketching and sculpting. As with traditional forms of artwork, net art expresses the artists' point of view, interpretation, thoughts and emotions. The artwork by Jason Nelson on SecretTechnology.com is no exception. Although I found it difficult to interpret the meaning behind the art, it prompted me to think about the message being conveyed and what it meant to me, which personally, I think, is the purpose of art.
As was mentioned in the previous paragraph, there are many advantages in utilising digital media to create net art. Apart from different design capabilities in comparison to traditional art, net art involves an interactive element, drawing the viewer into, and engaging them in the artwork and its meaning. Net art also provides the viewer with new and engaging ways of experiencing literacy and digital capabilities. In addition to these positive attributes, e-art can simply be emailed, allowing galleries to forego shipping expenses and the possibility of damage. Despite its numerous advantages, e-art does have some draw-backs. In relation to materials used to create traditional artwork, paint, canvas, pencils and the like have been in existence for literally thousands of years. Digital technology is relatively new, on the other hand. The fast paced technological revolution has created a climate in which what is new today is outdated tomorrow and overrun with a new product or capability. This impact ensures a relatively short life for the e-art of today, as tomorrow the programs or features used to support the e-art may be obsolete. This change in technology also has the possible effect of reducing the viewing nature and popularity of current e-art.
Nelson, J. (nd). Secret Technology: Net Art/Digital Poetry/Video Oddities. Retrieved January 28, 2011, from http://www.secrettechnology.com/
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