Would Postmodernists Consider Computer-Generated Art to Be True Art?

The concept of postmodernism remains fluid and multi-faceted, particularly when applied to the realm of art. Postmodern thinkers often advocate for a return to older forms, yet also embrace all forms of expression.

Postmodernism and Traditional Art Forms

In fields such as architecture, postmodernists reintroduced decorative elements, contrasting with the minimalist “form follows function” approach of modernist styles. Extending this perspective to the digital realm, a contemporary postmodernist might view computer-generated art as passé, favoring a blend of digital and hand-made techniques to achieve a more human touch.

The Essence of True Art

Postmodernists do not recognize the category of “true art”. In essence, they argue that the actual value of art lies in its symbolic meanings and the concepts it embodies, not in the tools used to create it. For instance, a play can be considered art through the symbolic representation of characters and themes, much like theater itself.

Art Beyond Tools

The importance of tools in creating art has been a contentious subject. Could a machine be a legitimate tool for creating art? According to some thinkers, art is fundamentally a matter of symbolic objectification. Therefore, the focus should be on the meaning and the message conveyed, rather than the medium or the tool.

Postmodernists argue that true art transcends traditional limitations. It is not confined to what is commonly recognized as “true art”. For example, a painting created with a digital tool can be considered art if it conveys a meaningful message. The key is the intention behind the creation, the artist's vision, and the resulting symbolic representation of a concept.

Machine-Generated Art

Machine-generated art is often viewed with skepticism. It is typically seen as a manufactured item rather than true art. Even when rare machine-generated pieces acquire value, they do not achieve the status of art. Art, in the eyes of postmodernists, must be created by a living being. A machine, no matter its sophistication, does not possess the creative consciousness necessary to produce true art.

In conclusion, while postmodernists do not adhere to rigid definitions of “true art”, they emphasize the importance of symbolic representation and the human element in the creation of art. They would affirm that computer-generated art can be considered true art provided it conveys a meaningful message and aligns with the broader principles of artistry.