What is digital visual culture?

Digital visual culture is a term that describes how visual communication is enhanced and shaped through the use of digital technology. The culture is based on the proliferation of digital media and increasingly widespread access to the internet. It has given rise to a new way of viewing and understanding the world around us, and of interacting with each other.

Digital visual culture encompasses a range of digital formats, from videos and photographs to 3D animations and virtual reality. It also includes the use of digital tools such as social media, blogs and websites, and the creation of digital art. These tools and platforms allow individuals to share visual experiences with others and to make new visual narratives.

A rapidly growing field

Digital visual culture is a rapidly growing phenomenon that has profoundly affected how people consume and create visual content. The rise of mobile devices and social media platforms has enabled people to access and share visual content more efficiently than ever before. This has increased the amount of visual content being created, transferred and consumed.

The widespread availability of digital cameras, editing software and online sharing platforms has made it easier for people to create and share visual content. Digital visual culture has also had an impact on traditional art forms. Many traditional forms, such as painting and sculpture, have been adapted to the digital medium. Digital artists can use digital tools to create more dynamic, interactive and expressive works than traditional art forms allow.

Digital visual culture has also had a significant impact on advertising and marketing. Companies can now create visually appealing and engaging content that can be shared quickly and easily across multiple platforms. This allows businesses to reach a wider audience and increase the visibility of their products and services.

Six forms

The field takes many forms. These six are among the most common.

Digital art

Digital art uses computer software to design and create art, including drawing, painting, sculpting and building 3D models. It is becoming more popular as technology advances, with the ability to create intricate, lifelike images that are difficult to produce with traditional art forms.

Digital photography

Digital photography uses digital cameras to take photographs. Photographers use a range of techniques to capture an image, from high dynamic range and panoramic shots to long exposures. They can also use editing software to adjust and enhance a photograph for a more professional look.

Animated GIFs

Animated GIFs use a series of still images to create a short animation. These animations can be used on websites and social media to create a more engaging experience for viewers.

3D graphics

3D graphics use computer generated images to create three dimensional scenes. This can include anything from video games to 3D films. 3D graphics are becoming more popular as technology advances and the ability to create realistic visuals increases.

Video

Video uses digital cameras and editing software to create moving visuals, from short films to music videos and tutorials. Video has become increasingly popular with the rise of streaming services, allowing viewers to watch content from anywhere in the world.

Virtual reality

Virtual reality uses computer generated images and sound to create an immersive three dimensional environment. The technology is used in fields from gaming to medicine, and is becoming more popular as technology advances.

Why it is used

Digital visual culture is a form of communication that allows people to express themselves through visuals and imagery. It is used to represent a variety of topics, from art and design to marketing, politics and activism.

Art and design

In art, digital visual culture is used to create and share artwork. Digital art allows artists to work in various styles and media, including 2D, 3D and animation. This can produce digital paintings, sculptures, prints and installations. Digital art can be used to create unique pieces or to make artwork that is more accessible and engaging to viewers.

Marketing

In marketing, digital visual culture is used to create advertisements and campaigns. Digital visuals are often used to create eye catching images that attract attention and draw in potential customers. Digital visuals can also develop interactive elements to engage viewers and provide an interactive experience.

Politics and activism

In politics and activism, digital visuals are used to express specific messages and causes. They can be used to protest, advocate for change, and bring attention to particular issues. Digital visuals can also create awareness and encourage people to join campaigns and take action.

A shifting visual culture

Digital visual culture represents a shift in the way we communicate and interact with the world. It has opened up new opportunities for self expression and allowed individuals to communicate in ways that were not possible before. It has also made it easier to access more information faster than ever, and easier to access and create content.

Digital visual culture is a rapidly growing part of our lives and continues to shape how we experience our environment. The Digital | Visual | Cultural lecture series explored these changes through a sustained engagement with visual culture, digital mediation and the politics of looking. The project statement sets out the scholarship behind that engagement, and the resource index collects the event records and further reading.