What makes digital art different
Digital works often need technical documentation, hardware, software, codecs, installation instructions, power, internet, sensors, projectors, screens or maintenance plans. The artwork may not be fully understood from a still image.
Curators and artists should document how the work is installed, what equipment is essential and what can be substituted.
Preservation and files
Digital preservation requires version control, file backups, formats, playback notes and rights documentation. A work stored on one hard drive is at risk.
Artists should keep master files, exhibition copies, installation diagrams and dependencies. Collectors should ask what they are acquiring: file, edition, certificate, hardware, instructions or licence.
Australian pathways
Look at media art organisations, experimental festivals, university galleries, digital culture programs, public art calls and interdisciplinary residencies. Digital practice often sits between art, technology, design and research.
Applications should explain both concept and technical feasibility.
