Within my own practice, I would have to disagree with this statement; I use various pieces of technology on a regular basis, all to aid my work. Of course, technology does have its flaws along with its strengths, but I would not by any means call it an ‘enemy of art’.

Through the use of the internet I am offered a vast range of reference images, inspiration and knowledge (much wider and more accessible than found in books) which I can use to enhance my creativity and technical abilities; I am able to watch tutorials through websites such as ‘YouTube’ where I can learn in my own time, without the need of a tutor and I am able to listen to music on demand for inspiration. Yes it is not as personal, but it is more accessible. Having technology allows us all to take photographs. It enables us to capture a moment of pure joy or sadness, a moment of expression. Technology also enables me to use programmes such as Adobe Illustrator and Adobe Photoshop to enhance my illustrations, or even to create new ones, as shown by this logo I created for myself within Adobe Illustrator.

Furthermore, through social media, I have the ability to share my work and to express my opinions to a wider audience, potentially gaining more viewers and buyers, or even just receiving more feedback to benefit my work.

On the other hand, solely relying on technology to create work or to view an image, rather than seeing the display in person, can have a negative effect. So many pieces of art are enjoyed due to the scale of them, but this element is greatly lost on a print or digital screen. Despite this fact, technology does not disable the chance of viewing artwork in person, it only extends the opportunity to more people.

Image – ‘Louise Dollery Illustrations’ logo.