Art and sustainability: can digital technologies achieve sustainability?

Abstract

Purpose

This paper discusses art and sustainability in the 21st century; therefore, we can't ignore the huge technological revolution that currently exists. Art throughout history has been associated to religion, politics and economics, but now it is also connected to technology. Hence, the question arises: Can digital technologies achieve sustainability? In this regard, the research will address the effective role of digital technology in achieving sustainability in art field and its practices.

Design/methodology/approach

The main research material is derived from my interviews with artists, professors, curators, gallerists and art historians. In addition to the references of sustainability in various fields that are related to art, as Sustainability has become a goal that all sectors are striving to achieve to preserve our planet, as much as we can, especially in the field of art which is closely related to the environment.

Findings

This paper explores the possibility of achieving sustainability in art field and its practices through digital technologies. In addition, it reveals that countries that have developed digital technologies are able to apply the digital technologies in art and its practices to achieve sustainability, in contrast, developing countries they could not achieve sustainability through digital technologies.

Originality/value

As part of a joint research project between a developing and developed country, the paper clarifies the different opinions from 14 countries about the extent to which sustainability in art is achieved through digital technology. It also outlines some successful and unsuccessful experiences in achieving sustainability in art.

Citation

Abdoh, S.A. (2022), "Art and sustainability: can digital technologies achieve sustainability?", Journal of Cultural Heritage Management and Sustainable Development, Vol. ahead-of-print No. ahead-of-print. https://doi.org/10.1108/JCHMSD-03-2022-0038