Post-internet art

Definition

Post-internet art refers to a movement in contemporary art that arises after the widespread adoption of the internet and digital technologies. This genre reflects on the impact of the internet on culture, aesthetics, and society, blending both online and offline experiences while addressing issues related to digital identity, consumerism, and the nature of art in a networked world.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Post-internet art emerged in the early 2000s as artists began to critically engage with how the internet influences our understanding of reality and identity.
2. Artists working within this genre often use mixed media, incorporating traditional techniques alongside digital tools to create works that reflect the complexities of contemporary life.
3. This movement challenges the boundaries between high art and popular culture, often utilizing internet aesthetics and referencing social media phenomena.
4. Many post-internet artists explore themes such as surveillance, data privacy, and the commodification of personal information within their work.
5. Exhibitions featuring post-internet art often include digital installations, web-based projects, and performances that blur the lines between physical and virtual spaces.

Review Questions

• How does post-internet art differ from earlier forms of digital art like net art?
  • Post-internet art differs from net art in that it doesn't solely exist online or as web-based projects; instead, it incorporates both digital and physical elements to engage audiences. While net art focuses primarily on creating works for the internet platform, post-internet art addresses how the internet has changed our perception of reality, culture, and identity. This movement examines the broader implications of living in a networked society and critiques the relationship between digital and physical experiences.
• What are some common themes explored by post-internet artists in their work?
  • Post-internet artists commonly explore themes like surveillance, data privacy, consumerism, and digital identity. They often reflect on how these issues affect individuals in a hyper-connected world. By blending various media forms and referencing popular internet culture, these artists provide critical commentary on the influence of technology in our lives. Their work often serves to question what it means to be human in an age dominated by digital interactions and social media.
• Evaluate how post-internet art can influence contemporary discussions about privacy and identity in our digital age.
  • Post-internet art plays a crucial role in contemporary discussions about privacy and identity by visually representing and critiquing how technology impacts these concepts. Artists use their work to raise awareness about issues like data surveillance and the loss of personal privacy, prompting viewers to reconsider their own relationships with technology. By highlighting the implications of living in a digitally connected world, post-internet art encourages critical dialogue about identity formation in an era where online personas often blur with real-life experiences.

Related terms

Net Art: Net art is a form of art that is created specifically for the internet, utilizing web technologies to engage audiences in interactive and participatory ways.

Digital Culture: Digital culture encompasses the practices, behaviors, and social norms that have emerged as a result of living in an increasingly digital world, influencing various aspects of life including communication, art, and commerce.

Internet Meme: An internet meme is a concept or idea that spreads virally online, often taking the form of images or videos that are humorously altered or repurposed by users.