Video art is a distinct art form that uses moving images and can be combined with audio. It originated in the 1960s and 1970s and has evolved with advances in digital technology. Unlike cinema, it does not use traditional aspects of filmmaking and can vary widely depending on the artist’s intent. Modern video art includes interactive film, visual music, and real-time computer graphics. It is presented through single channel or installation techniques.
Using the concept of moving images, video art is a medium that can accent other art forms or stand alone in gallery installations. The projects use video presentations which can be combined with audio if the artist wishes. While the concept generally takes a form similar to television presentations or experimental film making, it is considered a distinct art form more aligned with painting and photography.
The earliest examples of video art come from developments in video technology in the 1960s and 1970s. As video production methods became more prominent and affordable, modern artists of the time began to use the medium in conjunction with other art exhibits. With advances in digital technology during the late 20th and early 21st centuries, video has become much more prominent in galleries alongside traditional artwork. The medium has shifted from primarily using videotapes to formats such as digital video discs and solid-state hard drives.
The main distinction between video art and cinema is the fact that it does not use traditional aspects of filmmaking such as a concrete narrative or plot. Often, this art style simply uses images that don’t contain any dialogue or actors. Sometimes, it may include a repeating moving image used to represent one aspect of the overall piece of art. The biggest distinction between video art and film is the concept of entertainment. Films are generally designed to give the viewer some sort of emotional satisfaction, while video art can employ features that vary widely depending on the artist’s intent.
Modern video art has developed into different platforms using the full range of new media art technologies. Popular examples of formats include interactive film, visual music, and real-time computer graphics. The interactive film focuses on connecting the viewer with the piece. Visual music can employ different aspects of audio technology that may or may not contain actual musical accompaniment. Real-time computer graphics use an algorithm-based computer program to create computer-designed images that are constantly changing in real time, giving the viewer a completely unique experience.
The art form is generally divided into two different presentation methodologies: single channel and installation techniques. Single channel presentations are shown to the viewer like a television broadcast, where the art is simply broadcast. The installation technique uses video as a much more involved aspect of the entire piece. In essence, the video simply becomes a part of the whole work, which can also employ other artistic media.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
