The Intersection of Art and Technology

Speaker: Michelle O'Hollaren

This talk will explore the relationship between the creative realm of art and the innovative world of technology, highlighting how the two disciplines come together to shape the modern creative industry; including topics such as computer-generated art, 3D printing, virtual reality and immersive art.

Michelle O'Hollaren is the Vice President of Education and Innovation at the Indianapolis Art Center.

Sponsored by Jeff Rasley

Program: The Intersection of Art and Technology

Speaker: Michelle O’Hollaren, MAM, Vice President, Education and Innovation, Indianapolis Art Center

Introduced By: Jeff Rasley

Attendance: NESC: 89; Zoom: 25

Guest(s): Steve Cole, Margaret and David Nimz, Sarah Orzechowski, Maria Nesterova

Scribe: Artificial Intelligence Summary Only

Editor: Ed Nitka

Talk’s Zoom recording found at: https://www.scientechclubvideos.org/zoom/08252025.mp4

• Presentation Topics:
• • Digital Art: Evolution and tools used for creating digital art, including software like Adobe Photoshop and Procreate.
  • 3D Printing: The influence of 3D printing on sculpture and art production, featuring artists like Anish Kapoor.
  • Virtual and Augmented Reality: How these technologies create immersive experiences in art.
  • AI-Generated Art: The role of artificial intelligence in art creation, including ethical concerns around ownership and originality.

Historical Context of Digital Art

• 1960s to Present: The development of digital art from early computer-generated works to the present-day acceptance of digital art forms, including NFTs.
• Key Figures: Pioneers like Frieder Nake and Georg Nees who experimented with algorithmic art.

Tools for Digital Creation

• Software and Applications: Various tools artists use, such as:
• • Digital Art Software: Adobe Photoshop, Procreate.
  • 3D Modeling Software: Blender, AutoCAD.
  • Video Editing Software: Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro.

Immersive Art Experiences

• Exemplary Installations:
• • Rain Room: Allows visitors to experience rain without getting wet.
  • Infinity Mirror Rooms: Creates an illusion of infinite space through mirrors and lights.

AI's Impact on Art

• AI Tools: Introduction of AI tools like DALL-E and MidJourney for generating artwork.
• Ethical Considerations: Discussions around intellectual property, originality, and the potential displacement of artists due to AI-generated works.
• Case Study: Jason Allen's AI-generated artwork winning a blue ribbon at a state fair, sparking debate on AI's role in traditional art competitions.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The integration of technology and art is reshaping creative expression and accessibility.
• AI and digital tools are revolutionizing how art is created, experienced, and appreciated.
• Ethical discussions surrounding AI-generated art highlight the need for clarity in authorship and originality.
• Organizations like the Indy Arts Center are at the forefront of exploring these intersections through programs and exhibitions.

Michelle O’Hollaren