Final reading blog

Reading the article, I initially found it challenging to grasp the concept of Net.art. I imagined it was simply digital images shared on the internet, replacing physical artworks. However, after some researching some images, I discovered that Net.art encompasses a much broader range of creative expressions. Slovenian artist Vuk Cosic coined the term by accident, discovering it in a corrupted email. This accidental naming became the seed for a new form of online art and communication, characterized by a focus on interaction, links, and digital exchanges. Net.art quickly caught the interest of internet communities, as it was innovative, collaborative, and non-traditional. Net.art's appeal lies in its unconventional approach to art. Unlike traditional forms, it's not bound by galleries or physical spaces. For instance, I/O/D's Web Stalker browser allowed users to explore external links across web pages in an entirely new way, demonstrating the creative possibilities of digital platforms right in your own home. This flexibility and adaptability enabled artists to communicate and share their work in ways previously unimaginable, creating a large online community.

However, with popularity comes the risk of over-commercialization and misuse. As Net.art became more mainstream, maintaining creative freedom and authenticity grew more challenging. The increased population of users brought attention, but also pressure to conform to certain trends. This tension underscores the need for Net.art to balance its innovative roots with the realities of a growing audience. These challenges aren't just a problem within net.art, but its a problem with any sort of growing trend. The smaller the population of users is, the more controlled it can be. However once it reaches a certain point, there is no maintaining the use of the innovation. The same could be said about any social media platform, or technological advancement. Facebook has similarly experienced commercialization, where user-generated content is often monetized through advertising and sponsored posts. This shift toward commercial interests can impact the creative freedom and authenticity of the platform.

Despite these challenges, Net.art remains a powerful innovation that combines artistic expression with technology. It offers a unique platform for artists to experiment, connect, and redefine what art can be in the digital age.