Post-internet art

Definition

Post-internet art refers to a contemporary art movement that reflects the profound influence of the internet on culture, aesthetics, and the artistic process. This form of art often explores themes such as digital identity, online experiences, and the intersection of the virtual and physical worlds, showcasing how the internet has transformed not only how art is created but also how it is experienced and understood.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Post-internet art challenges traditional notions of authorship and originality by embracing replication and sharing in digital spaces.
2. Many post-internet artists use mixed media to combine physical objects with digital content, creating works that exist in both realms.
3. This movement often incorporates irony and humor, reflecting a critical stance toward internet culture and consumerism.
4. Exhibitions of post-internet art frequently utilize non-traditional spaces, including online platforms and social media, to reach audiences.
5. Key figures in post-internet art include artists who originally came from backgrounds in graphic design or digital media, highlighting the crossover between these fields.

Review Questions

• How does post-internet art reflect the legacy of conceptual art in contemporary practices?
  • Post-internet art inherits from conceptual art's emphasis on ideas over traditional aesthetics by using digital platforms to express complex concepts about identity and society. Artists within this movement leverage internet culture to critique or comment on modern life, much like conceptual artists used text and language to challenge perceptions. This evolution shows how both movements prioritize intellectual engagement over purely visual appeal, bridging past practices with current technological realities.
• In what ways have key digital artists innovated their practices to embody the principles of post-internet art?
  • Key digital artists have embraced technological advancements to create immersive installations that blend virtual experiences with physical environments. By integrating social media dynamics and interactive elements into their works, these artists push boundaries, challenging viewers' perceptions of space and engagement. This innovation not only represents a shift in how art is created but also transforms audience interaction, aligning closely with post-internet principles that merge online and offline realities.
• Evaluate the impact of technology on the production and distribution of post-internet art compared to earlier forms of contemporary art.
  • The impact of technology on post-internet art is profound, as it allows for instantaneous global distribution through platforms like social media and online galleries. This accessibility contrasts sharply with earlier contemporary forms that relied heavily on physical exhibitions in galleries or museums. As a result, artists can reach wider audiences while maintaining a direct connection with viewers through digital mediums. This shift redefines artistic engagement, enabling real-time feedback and collaborative creation that were previously impossible in traditional settings.

Related terms

Net Art: A genre of art that uses the internet as a primary medium for creation and distribution, often engaging with themes specific to online environments.

Digital Aesthetics: The exploration of visual styles and concepts that arise from digital technologies, influencing contemporary art practices.

Cyberculture: The social and cultural practices that emerge from the use of computer networks, especially the internet, affecting various aspects of life including art.