CONVERGENCE

Blurring the lines between object ‘functionability’ and purpose.

Convergence is best understood as different platforms and devices coming together as one, and a blurring of the distinction between them.

With more than 2,500 technology companies introducing more than 20,000 new products at the beginning of 2010 at the International CES including 3D TV, mobile DTV, connected TV, green technologies, tablets and apps, it seems that we are getting evermore closer to the fantastical ideals foresaw by the optimistic sci-fi writers of the ‘60s where one item can complete a thousand tasks.

This year, for the first time, 90 per cent or so of the HD TVs being displayed at CES have internet connections. So what does that mean? We have seen scores of TVs that pull in content from social media services like Twitter while displaying linear, live television. So when you’re watching Question Time or the X Factor, you will be able to see live, in real-time, what others are making of the programme. You will no longer need to check your laptop or phone for the update.

Now convergence between various technological devices probably seems like nothing new, and just part of our ever increasing momentum in hi tech advancement.

However, technology within art is on the uptake and becoming more and more advanced.

Decode: Digital Design Sensations at the V&A is a joint collaboration between the V & A & onedotzero which showcases the latest developments in digital and interactive design, from small, screen-based, graphics to large-scale interactive installation and looks at how advanced technologies and the internet have enabled new types of social interaction and mediums of self-expression.

Kinetica Art Fair is produced by Kinetica Museum and is the first of its kind in the UK. It provides collectors, curators and the public with a unique opportunity to view and purchase artworks from leading contemporary arts organisations and artists specialising in kinetic, electronic, robotic, light, sound, time-based and interdisciplinary new media art.

Kinetica art fair

Having studied Time based media a good 6 years ago and struggling ever since to explain my course subject, it is with great excitement that 2010 looks to be the year of amazing digital and artistic development and I for one am excited about where this will take us, blurring the lines between the digital business world and the art world and opening new doors for the people in both camps.

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