Traditionally, the Arts record our history and cultural changes and have played a critical role in passing knowledge onto the next generations. The Arts are the reflections of our societies, portraying a range of values such as aesthetics, science, morality, ethics, achievements and more. 

​

In the past few decades, the Arts have been significantly influenced by technological advancements and there are both positive and negative impacts. New tools and materials are introduced to artists that inspire and expand their creative horizons. 

​

Technology makes the process of creation more efficient and effective, allowing artists to focus on fabricating ideas rather than the implementations i.e. producing the actual artworks, because it is relatively convenient to edit digitally using softwares. Alberto Seveso is a successful artist who creates stunning images using digital tools. Artists who use traditional mediums such as paintings and drawings, have benefited from technology as well, namely the introduction of the internet and various social platforms. Artists can get large amounts of exposure quickly at minimal costs. However, viewing artworks in person gives a unique experience because Art is a lot more than merely 2D works. Quality of the final outcomes have improved as well, because these digital tools allow artists to refine the artworks with mouse clicks and achieve the desired results. Furthermore, tools such as laser printing and 3D printing allow artists to commercialise their artworks to a high standard.

​

Although technology empowers artists with digital techniques, the artist’s personal touches are still irreplaceable. Programmes and softwares can imitate brush strokes and other techniques, making the artworks appear to be done by hand. However, the outcomes are still drastically different. Traditionally, artists relied on their proficiency with the available tools, making every single piece unique through their personal touches. Nowadays, the need for the individual touch has decreased. Digital artists can modify their works significantly in a relatively short amount of time, potentially making them deviate from their original concepts or intentions. Therefore, digital techniques can be constructive and destructive to the creation process at the same time. As a matter of fact, it is getting more difficult for artists now to convey original ideas. 

​

Technology certainly has made major impacts to artists’ process of creation and outcomes. It is still crucial for artists to master conventional art tools, since they are the fundamentals in creating artworks. It is also important to be proficient at digital tools since they expand artists’ horizons. It will take a considerable amount of effort and time to understand all these tools thoroughly, so artists are able to illustrate their concepts accurately. A good example would be Craig Mullins, often regarded as one of the first pioneers in digital painting, who is also very proficient with traditional techniques. 

 

Despite having access to all the tools we have nowadays, creativity is still the core of Art & Design. Artists need to be familiar with all these elements and apply digital techniques wisely.