Abstract
Keywords:
Internet Art, Socially Engaged Internet-Art, Digital Art, Always On, Net Art Exhibition, Taiwan Digital Art, Telecommunication
People use mobile smart devices as gateways to enter the online world. We are not only “Being online” but in “Always On” life. Taiwanese artists recognized the issues and has led to a greater concern on the digital lifestyle and its impacts, resulting in the initiation of creative projects and exhibitions. The involvement of the internet society in internet art is a proven method for artists. This approach aligns with the concept of Socially Engaged Internet Art. It emphasizes artists actively engaging in social issues within the online environment to prompt audience awareness and reflection on topics related to the online society, politics, culture, and more. This article aims to gain insight into the critical awareness and practices by examining the artworks in the “Always On: Net Art Exhibition” in Taiwan. This exhibition features 10 artists and 2 artist groups, showcasing a total of 15 artworks organized into four themes: “Digital Manipulation,” “Information Ghost,” “Simulated Existence,” and “Return to Reality.” The author will explore how artists express their concerns regarding the implications of behavioral technology, strive to regain their rationality, and acknowledge the existence of concealed online manipulation.
- Yu-Chuan Tseng, Graduate Institute of Art and Technology, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu City, Taiwan