Information Arts: Intersections of Art, Science, and Technology

3409

收藏 2015-08-05

A new breed of contemporary artist engages science and technology--not just to adopt the vocabulary and gizmos, but to explore and comment on the content, agendas, and possibilities. Indeed, proposes Stephen Wilson, the role of the artist is not only to interpret and to spread scientific knowledge, but to be an active partner in determining the direction of research. Years ago, C. P. Snow wrote about the "two cultures" of science and the humanities; these developments may finally help to change the outlook of those who view science and technology as separate from the general culture.In this rich compendium, Wilson offers the first comprehensive survey of international artists who incorporate concepts and research from mathematics, the physical sciences, biology, kinetics, telecommunications, and experimental digital systems such as artificial intelligence and ubiquitous computing. In addition to visual documentation and statements by the artists, Wilson examines relevant art-theoretical writings and explores emerging scientific and technological research likely to be culturally significant in the future. He also provides lists of resources including organizations, publications, conferences, museums, research centers, and Web sites.

Editorial ReviewsAmazon.com ReviewIf art is our most reliable oracle, then the future looks cool, digital, and expensive. Stephen Wilson's massive Information Arts compiles notes on and samples of the work of over 200 artists, organized loosely by scientific discipline. Artists drawing inspiration from cell cultures, GPS, robots, surveillance databases, and other technological muses receive a page or two of commentary, often including their own statements and critical reviews.The image selection is only adequate and often puzzling--why show a photograph of an installation meant to be experienced in total darkness, for example? Still, as a reference and resource guide, Information Arts is without parallel, especially for the largest section, covering computer-related or -aided artworks. Deep research, engaging prose, and copious listings of further information make it essential for exploring the avant. --Rob Lightner --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

Review

"This book is marvelous in its scope, very important and timely, and very thoroughly researched. The author sets out to map the extremely complex and layered area of intersection between art, science, and technology. He accomplishes this by thinking through the parameters of his topic with much first-hand experience, insight, and care, and by being inclusive with examples."--Nell Tenhaaf, electronic media artist and professor, York University, Toronto Please note: Endorser gives permission to excerpt from quote.

"An admirable compendium of work....The book's roster reads like a who's who of international scenemakers." Wired

"Wilson...has bravely tried to survey the entire intersection of the arts and the sciences." Mike Holderness New Scientist

"Information Arts provides an important and fundamental overview of the issues and relationship of scientific research and art. To my knowledge no other book of this scope has been published."--Joel Slayton, Director of the CADRE Laboratory for New Media, School of Art and Design, San Jose State University

"Stephen Wilson's 'Information Arts' is a remarkable piece of modern scholarship that offers not only a panorama of artistic concerns with topical scientific and technological matters but also exceptional insights into the aesthetic options of artists from an author who is an artist himself."--Frank Popper, Professor Emeritus, University of Paris

"This book guides us through the vitality and plurality of creative forms that emerge when the boundaries of art and technology are erased. An invaluable reference and a delightful read."--Rafael Lozano-Hemmer, artist, curator, and author of Vectorial Elevation