Art aficionados and tech enthusiasts are encouraged to take heed of the ongoing exhibition at the Santa Barbara Museum of Art. Entitled Made by Hand/Born Digital, this innovative showcase highlights the integration of computer systems and artificial intelligence into the works of various artists in groundbreaking ways.
The primary objective of this exhibition is to dispel any negative preconceptions surrounding technology and its impact on art. Rather, it seeks to demonstrate the harmonious coexistence of traditional artistic practices with modern technological advancements. The captivating pieces are on display in the museum’s contemporary gallery, providing a thought-provoking experience for all visitors.
One particularly noteworthy example within the exhibition is Yassi Mazandi’s sculpture “Nine,” which, despite its appearance resembling a circle of bony structures, was in fact meticulously crafted using a combination of traditional clay work and 3D printing with pulverized stone. This deceptive use of materials adds a layer of complexity and intrigue to the artwork, impelling viewers to reconsider their initial perceptions.
In a similar vein, Justin Mortimer’s painting “Dog” intricately merges digital collage techniques with traditional painting methods to convey a thought-provoking and somewhat disquieting visual narrative. This work pushes the boundaries of conventional art and encourages viewers to explore the intersection of technology and artistic expression.
Ena Swansea’s paintings, including “area code, 2019,” offer a surreal and almost dreamlike interpretation of reality, accomplished through a meticulous process of digital photo manipulation. The ultimate outcome challenges our perception of what is real and what is merely a product of artistic fantasy.
Furthermore, Taha Heydari’s “Reterritorialization” provides a profound personal and societal commentary, blurring the boundaries between the perspective of AI and the artist’s experiences as an Iranian living in the aftermath of a political revolution.
The exhibition showcases diverse approaches to incorporating technology. Artists such as Alex Heilbron and Pae White have embraced digital design tools to create intricate and visually captivating pieces. Even the seemingly traditional art of tapestry is reimagined through the use of computer-controlled looms, elegantly demonstrated by Sarah Rosalena’s “Exit Grid.”
The exhibition reaches its culmination with Analia Saban’s “Pleated Ink (Music Synthesizer: Max MSP, 1996),” which expertly blurs the boundaries between handmade and digital art, inviting visitors to contemplate the intricate relationship between the two realms.
Made by Hand/Born Digital presents a thought-provoking and enlightening exploration that challenges conventional notions of art and technology. This exceptional exhibition will be on display at the Santa Barbara Museum of Art until August 25th, offering a unique opportunity to witness the fusion of creativity and innovation.
For further information about the exhibition, we invite you to visit sbma.net/exhibitions and submerge yourself in this captivating exploration of art, technology, and the boundless possibilities that arise from the convergence of these two worlds.