I’m constantly amazed at the power of technology. And not just because I can talk to people from all over the world with the click of a button. I also love the implications of technology on art, and how it’s constantly pushing art in new and wonderful directions. The digital art centre Atelier des Lumières is the perfect example of this. They create immersive art experiences that bring together masterpieces of the art world in one location. But they also showcase the latest innovations in digital art as a medium unto itself. Before the latest lockdown began, I visited this art centre to see its current exhibition on the Impressionist painters of the Mediterranean. I also saw Moments, which was showing in their smaller studio, and it was the absolute perfect compliment to the main show.
Now, I’m not an expert in Impressionism, but I do know that it was a movement defined by its use of colour, light, and perception of movement. Moments takes this to a whole new level. Impressionist paintings have been digitally scanned in extraordinarily high resolutions. The resulting pigments of colour have then been put through an algorithm that moves them throughout the space in a variety of shapes and patterns.
Once again, I’m doing a terrible job of describing this particular work of art. But it’s hard to describe something that absolutely has to be experienced in person. The screens of the studio space completely surround the audience, meaning the moving pigments and shapes flow around you in a way that might just be beyond words. All I can say is that I’m grateful for spaces like Atelier des Lumières, because I honestly don’t know where else you could experience digital works like this. It certainly wouldn’t work to watch them on YouTube. Some things simply have to be experienced in person. Once it’s safe to do so of course.
Suggestions for artists I should check out? Please contact me with your ideas. I hope you enjoyed your daily helping of art!
