Art and Technology: In the Face of a WorldWide Pandemic

Abstract

Saying the year 2020 had its challenges is an understatement. Considering the societal split brought on by the United States presidential election and its results, numerous natural disasters, and the Global COVID-19 Pandemic, the world as we knew it changed forever as society and life around us changed and fractured. With the unknown-nature of the virus, at first the world stood still. People across the world were faced with hardships and the Arts suffered along with the rest of the world. With shelter in place acts preventing non essential travel all connection to the outside world, loved ones, and fellow collaborators was through technology. Due to social distancing regulations traditional theaters, movie theaters, museums, and concert halls began to shut down day by day as a result of the pandemic. Across the entire world, small businesses began to close due to lack of income. In an attempt to gain revenue, artists and arts organizations alike had to turn to technology to fill the gaps in income and the creative process itself. It is no secret that technology has been a staple in the development of art for centuries; Digital film, Virtual Reality Technology, and Video/text communication are all essential tools in the integration of social distancing regulations. Without technology like this, it would be impossible for most artists to connect and share their work. It has also been essential in non arts careers pushing the workforce to develop and protect the worker. Whether it be professional zoom meetings, auditions, or interviews the world was forced to adapt to the new norm in both art and non art related fields.