Reading Blog #3

The Net.Art movement very much reminds me of the postmodernism movement in the 1960s & 1970s. In particular, Net.Art seems like just the natural digital transition for pop art–art created with mainstream images to challenge the notion of ‘fine art.’ It feels like a continuation of those mid-nineteenth century movements, also continuing the theme of having social or political themes. The art that survived the best, besides software migration issues, was the art that had the most bold messages; just like in painting. Part of me wonders if this early, bold, internet art set the stage for modern day hyperbolic headlines?

Similarly, and the part I enjoy the most, was the playful nature of this new medium. Sure; serious stories could be told, but the most well known art pieces use at least some level of irony and humor in their message. How, even in its beginnings, the internet was fostered to be an environment for tricksters–the good and the bad ones. Still, it’s fascinating that it faced the desaturation that any mainstream media eventually faces. Net.Art was ‘indie’ and niche, “[o]riginally conceived as an alternative social field where art and everyday life were merged,” and yet, it later was,”threatened by its own success—that is, likely to give in to its own increasing institutionalization.” Oh how history repeats itself in more than just one way!