The Sculptural in the (Post-)Digital Age

Digital technologies have transformed the arts, including sculpture, but art history has yet to fully embrace this shift. This publication explores how digital technologies redefine sculpture and its relationship to the (post-)digital age, drawing on international and trans-historical research perspectives.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 242 pages
Publication date: 19 June 2023
Publisher: De Gruyter

Digital technologies have had a profound impact on the arts, particularly sculpture, since the 1950s. While art history has acknowledged the significance of digital technologies in artistic practice, it has paid limited attention to sculptural works created and 'materialized' through digital means. This gap in recognition highlights the need to reexamine the artistic medium in relation to our contemporary technological landscape and its historical precedents.

Several theoretical approaches have emerged to address the implications of the so-called 'Aesthetics of the Digital,' primarily focusing on screen-based phenomena. This publication aims to bridge this gap by bringing together international and trans-historical research perspectives to explore how digital technologies redefine our understanding of sculpture and shape the sculptural landscape into the (post-)digital age.

In the following paragraphs, we will delve into the up-to-date research on the expansion of the concept of sculpture through digital technologies. We will also explore how historical sculptural debates intersect with discourse on new media and (post-)digital culture, shedding light on the evolving nature of artistic expression in the digital era.

One significant area of exploration is the use of digital technologies in the creation of sculptural works. Artists have embraced digital tools and techniques to manipulate materials, shape forms, and create intricate designs that were previously impossible to achieve. Digital sculpting allows for the exploration of new artistic possibilities, such as the creation of virtual reality installations, interactive sculptures, and augmented reality experiences.

Furthermore, digital technologies have facilitated the dissemination and accessibility of sculptural works. Online platforms and digital archives have made it possible for artists to share their work with a global audience, expanding the reach and impact of sculptural art. The ability to create and share digital sculptures has democratized the artistic process, allowing more individuals to participate in and contribute to the field.

However, the integration of digital technologies into sculptural practice raises important questions about the nature of artistic expression and the role of the artist. As digital technologies become increasingly prevalent, there is a risk of homogenization and standardization in artistic output. The reliance on digital tools and techniques may lead to a loss of the unique touch and craftsmanship that are inherent in traditional sculptural practices.

To address these concerns, it is crucial to foster a critical dialogue between artists, scholars, and the broader public. By exploring the ethical and philosophical implications of digital technologies in sculpture, we can ensure that they are used in a way that promotes creativity, diversity, and human expression.

In conclusion, digital technologies have transformed the field of sculpture by expanding the artistic possibilities, facilitating dissemination, and challenging traditional notions of artistic expression. While there are challenges to be addressed, the potential of digital technologies to shape the sculptural landscape into the (post-)digital age is immense. By engaging with the implications of these technologies and fostering a critical dialogue, we can ensure that the artistic medium continues to evolve and thrive in the digital age.

Weight: 608g
Dimension: 240 x 170 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783110775051