Blending traditional artistic techniques with technology
Contemporary artists are continuing to innovate by mixing traditional artistic techniques with new technologies.
Contemporary artists are continuing to innovate by mixing traditional artistic techniques with new technologies.
Did you know that … creative techniques have evolved thanks to technology, yet traditional methods remain at the forefront of artistic innovation?
The role of artists is to show us new perspectives and alter how we view ourselves and the world around us. Creativity and innovation have always been two of the driving forces behind artistic development. But artists have also drawn heavily on cultural traditions and techniques to pay tribute to their influences, preserve historical narratives and build a bridge between past and present. This fusion of the old and the new allows artists to create works that are both timeless and also reflective of evolving societal values.
In today's digital world, contemporary artists are blending time-honoured techniques with cutting-edge technology to craft groundbreaking works. While tools like digital editing software, 3D modelling and laser cutting are revolutionising how we create, artists continue to find inspiration in traditional practices such as engraving, collage, ink painting and even paper cutting.
Some of these age-old methods are not just surviving—they're thriving in the modern art world. By combining traditional craftsmanship with technological advancements, contemporary artists are reimagining the creative process in exciting new ways.
Yoon Ji Seon – exploring the artistic intersection between humans and machines
Korean artist Yoon Ji Seon is a highly innovative contemporary artist who has mixed traditional artistry with modern technology for most of her career. Perhaps best known for her "Rag Face" series, Yoon Ji Seon combines laser-cutting technology with intricate hand-drawn designs and hand stitching to create striking works imbued with deep political and personal meanings.
Yoon Ji Seon uses laser-cutting technology to engrave her distinctive hand-drawn designs onto a range of mediums such as fabric, paper, or wood. In this way, the artist achieves a level of precision and depth that is not possible by traditional hand drawing methods alone. Yoon Ji Seon’s work demonstrates a keen understanding of the impact of combining highly personal traditional self-portraiture and sewing techniques with the clinical precision of laser-cutting technology.
An artist uses virtual reality to immerse himself in a virtual studio, creating and exploring new artistic worlds.
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Julie mehretu – fusing traditional ink techniques with digital art
Julie Mehretu’s paintings fuse traditional ink techniques with digital art to create compositions that evoke the highly interconnected yet chaotic nature of modern life. Fluid brushwork and complex layering combine with images created using computer mapping and graphic design tools. Her paintings and drawings contain elements from technical architectural drawings and weather charts as well as non-linear hand-drawn lines. Mehretu harnesses technology to create compelling visual narratives that explore themes of space, movement and history.
The artist’s process involves sketching and drawing by hand before beginning a detailed layering process using mixed media such as media ink, acrylic, and graphite. Her layering technique increases the depth and complexity of her works. By integrating traditional ink drawing techniques with digital art, Julie Mehretu has established herself as a leading figure on the contemporary art scene. Her drawings deliver profound insights into the complexities of the modern world and how traditional techniques can be used in conjunction with the algorithmic realm of digital art.
David Mach – traditional craftsmanship meets contemporary 3D design
David Mach is a British sculptor who has made a name for himself by combining both handcraft and 3D modelling to create monumental, innovative sculptural installations. Mach’s artwork purposefully challenges the boundaries between fine art and architecture. His large-scale sculptures are created using metal, paper, found objects and everyday objects such as coat hangers.
Each work begins with the laborious process of building models by hand or assembling objects. Once completed, the handcrafted models serve as the blueprints for Mach’s larger works. The original model is reimagined through the use of 3D modelling and other digital technologies. This enables Mach to create works of a much larger scale and precision than would otherwise be possible.
Like the other artists we have featured, Mach blends traditional and modern techniques to create works that demonstrate how technology can enhance human creativity.
