This is the first in a new series of monthly blogs in which Paul Hobson, Director of Modern Art Oxford, reflects on current developments in contemporary art.
‘Without a doubt one of the most significant and widespread developments that can be seen in many critically engaged contemporary art practices is born out of an involvement with digital cultures.
A vast number of international artists are drawing attention to the new visual surfaces, formats and effects of digital distributed platforms including social media, or creating reflexive positions on their impact on our lifestyles, identities and social relationships. This is hardly surprising given that technological developments have transformed our existence since the beginning of the 21st century.
Artists of all eras have always employed the visual technologies of their times to capture the essence of contemporary conditions and this is something, in my view, that is a defining feature we should look for in the development of new forms of art’.