In a blog post past, I talked about the importance of personal interaction in the equation of art.

I had an interesting chat with Arthur Edwards and Evan McIntyre the other day. I was looking at some of Arthur’s pieces from his Adornment Exhibition at the Exchange. The art was on his computer and we were commenting on how you really can’t get the feel of the painting unless you see it hanging in front of you…pictures on a screen or in a book just aren’t able to do justice to the art. And there’s something about experiencing art with other people, turning to someone else and asking, “What do you think?” or “I love it” or even “I don’t get it”. Then we moved into the whole ‘is the internet ruining art’ conversation. As idea vehicles go, the internet is the most effective way to communicate with the largest number of people that has ever been invented. I worry that this can lead to art that is ‘dumbed down’ for the masses. Not a new problem, but magnified by the sheer numbers. And again, I think removing proximity from art robs the viewer of an important part of the experience.

In the end, I obviously think the internet is an invaluable tool for artists and culture, as long as it remains one of many tools at the artists command. If virtual galleries totally replace actual galleries, then something valuable will be lost.

Interestingly enough (to me), I happened on this vid from bigthink.com: Is the internet ruining design?

Speaking of cool experiences, don’t forget to come to the Drew Holcomb/Michael Claytor + Huge Light Writing Event on October 24. Are you on Facebook? Then let us know you are coming and invite your friends HERE.