Welcome to Creative Digi Media, a blog dedicated to the exploration of how digital platforms influence creativity. Although this is an academic assignment for university, I hope to include many colorful projects and ideas that would not only inform, but also inspire.
The subjects that the blog touches upon range from opportunities to limitations in modern creative industries. The notions of censorship, limitless art and openness are explored in the following posts, accompanied by commentaries of favorite pieces of work. There are many different sources that I rely on, including academic research that I critically evaluate in order to establish a balanced position on contemporary issues.
Considering that our lives are increasingly becoming digital, it is inevitable for creativity to transfoer to these new platforms. This transition creates new possibilities for artistic expression, which has always been important. It shapes communities, sends messages and gives way to ideas that have the potential to change the world. After all, without art, 'earth' is just an 'eh'.
Thursday, 1 May 2014
Storytelling through Social Media
Social media sites such as Facebook and Twitter are designed for users to be able to express what is on their mind in an effortless manner. What happens when someone decides to use this in a creative way? Storytelling.
Virtually any platform that lends itself to posting written content can lead to storytelling in one way or another. And, in a sense, by publishing posts about their daily errands, thoughts or feelings, users share their real stories through the use of social media. This post, however, is focused on the intentional creation of short stories through the use of digital platforms and, more specifically, Twitter.
Although the site allows only 140 characters per post, this does not stop people from using it as a creative resource. Short stories have begun to appear in social media in different ways, one of which is the MashableReads challenge. Mashable.com provided its users with the opportunity to think creatively in order to fit their fictional ideas into the length of a tweet. Here are some of my personal favorites:
Fiction told through social media also makes the entire experience more interactive. As Andrew Fitzgerald explains in his TED talk, one of the most engaging digital storytelling techniques is to give readers the opportunity to tune in while the story is being posted. New Yorker Fiction did exactly that. This changes everything, as the control in the flow of the story is not in the reader, but in the writer. Instead of having the entire story finished and printed in their hands in the form of a book, readers have to anticipate and wait for each individual tweet in order to see how things progress.
The speech includes a few more examples of digital storytelling, but I found these two the most interesting. They demonstrate that art is adaptable, it does not suffer if traditional means of creativity become less popular or are completely removed due to better alternatives. On the contrary, creativity takes advantage of new technology and demonstrates that any resource can be put to good use, however limiting it can be.
Virtually any platform that lends itself to posting written content can lead to storytelling in one way or another. And, in a sense, by publishing posts about their daily errands, thoughts or feelings, users share their real stories through the use of social media. This post, however, is focused on the intentional creation of short stories through the use of digital platforms and, more specifically, Twitter.
Although the site allows only 140 characters per post, this does not stop people from using it as a creative resource. Short stories have begun to appear in social media in different ways, one of which is the MashableReads challenge. Mashable.com provided its users with the opportunity to think creatively in order to fit their fictional ideas into the length of a tweet. Here are some of my personal favorites:
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| Image taken from here. |
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| Image taken from here. |
The speech includes a few more examples of digital storytelling, but I found these two the most interesting. They demonstrate that art is adaptable, it does not suffer if traditional means of creativity become less popular or are completely removed due to better alternatives. On the contrary, creativity takes advantage of new technology and demonstrates that any resource can be put to good use, however limiting it can be.
Suppression of Creativity: Copyrights and Censorship
Creativity thrives in environments where openness and freedom are found in abundance. In a perfect world, ideas would be exchanged freely, resources would be lent openly and there would be limitless possibilities as to what an artist can do. The world today, however, is nowhere near perfect. It is not a secret that creativity is under constant suppression by law. Copyright limits the opportunities in front of the modern artist, telling him that he cannot use one thing or another, because that would be plagiarism.
There is ground for such measures. If an artist were to be the victim of plagiarism, and have nothing to protect himself with, then there is not much point in pursing creativity as a means of sustaining oneself. At the same time, if a creative project is not aimed at gaining profit, but rather expression of passion or emotion, no harm lies in the financial stability of the artist who has produced the original.
Lawrence Lessig touches upon this subject in great detail. In his speech, he demonstrates a complex, but valid argument, on how copyright can be perceived in modern times.
Technology inspires change. More often than not, change leads to conflicting interests. By making a comparison between the issue of copyright and the problem of trespassing of airplanes in private territory, Lessig clearly demonstrates how outdated perceptions and laws are not applicable to changes caused by technology. New approaches need to be adopted. As he puts it, common sense is required.
What he explains is that amateur, but not amateurish, content is how today's generation expresses itself. Instead of being a passive audience, they are active creators who take advantage of the available resources and express their ideas. They do not do it to gain profit, they do it because they enjoy it. And by imposing copyright law over what they enjoy, governments inspire a sort of hatred towards regulations in general. If laws do not make sense, then why should they be followed?
Lessig presses the issue with a very clear argument that modern communities do not benefit from strict regulations which do not take fair usage into account. What is happening, instead, is open creativity being criminalized in the minds of the new generation.
There is nothing democratic about accepting one idea and rejecting another, solely on the basis that it does not benefit someone's interests. At the same time, complete removal of regulation is another extreme action that will lead to no improvement. I agree with Lessig's notion that free usage needs to be accepted from artists themselves, that they lend their work as resources for other creatives, as long as it is not for profit. This will lead to a more peaceful situation where acceptance, respect and appropriate accreditation will be commonplace, giving creativity its much required freedom back.
Wednesday, 30 April 2014
Limitless Art: Digital Photography
Digital media has inluenced many artistic movements, but perhaps the most affected one is photography. The opportunity to edit, manipulate and alter images has created an opening for this form of art to develop from having to be at the right place and at the right time to just having the right resources. Anything becomes possible with the ability to combine images, creating settings and concepts on one's computer that would otherwise be impossible in the real world.
Erik Johansson is a photographer who skillfully uses the advantages of photo manipulation in order to convey his creative ideas without having to comply with the rules of reality. Abstract ideas can be difficult to express when it comes to photography, but these challenges can be surpassed, as he explains:
His works seem unreal and realistic at the same time, with sophisticated and intricate editing of his photographs. The concepts that he shows in his presentation would be impossible without the power of digital technology. He takes advantage of the limitless opportunities and admits that only his own imagination can set the boundaries.
Digital photography is yet another example of how technology reveals new horizons to the artist. It demonstrates that instead of hindering creativity, technological advances give creators more options to express their ideas, however unreal they may seem.
Erik Johansson is a photographer who skillfully uses the advantages of photo manipulation in order to convey his creative ideas without having to comply with the rules of reality. Abstract ideas can be difficult to express when it comes to photography, but these challenges can be surpassed, as he explains:
I personally think that it is easier to create a place, rather than to find a place, because then you don't need to compromise with your ideas in your head.
His works seem unreal and realistic at the same time, with sophisticated and intricate editing of his photographs. The concepts that he shows in his presentation would be impossible without the power of digital technology. He takes advantage of the limitless opportunities and admits that only his own imagination can set the boundaries.
Digital photography is yet another example of how technology reveals new horizons to the artist. It demonstrates that instead of hindering creativity, technological advances give creators more options to express their ideas, however unreal they may seem.
Artistic Activism
Creative expression touches upon an endless list of subjects, one of which is environmental awareness. Social media, combined with art and visual representation, can create thought-provoking campaigns that influence entire communities. This is especially effective if the artists sharing their work have a large fan base that will accept their ideas and spread them with friends and family.
One such talented artist who uses her work in order to provoke change in the perception of environmental issues is Wenqing Yan. She publishes her art under the pseudonym of Yuumei in DeviantArt and talks about several different issues that can often be overlooked by the public.
Countdown by yuumei on deviantART
One example is the melting of the ice caps, which will lead to devastating flooding and destruction. This particular piece of work strikes the heart of the viewer with an accusation that while we live a comfortable life, this carefree time will sooner, rather than later, run out. And we will have to face the consequences.
Rain by yuumei on deviantART
'Rain' is a comic-strip that demonstrates how uncontrolled manufacturing kills nature and leaves nothing in its path. Even the fact that only a single flower is growing in the drawing leaves us with an eerie feeling that recovery is slow, painful and countered by more acidic rain.
Crimson Irony by yuumei on deviantART
It is not just the paintings of the artist that send a message. In her comment section, Yuumei explains what she is trying to tell her audience, including provocative questions and statements, such as:
I believe that artistic movements such as this are a strong way to boost awareness about not just the environment, but also other issues such as racism, inequality, poverty and abuse.
One such talented artist who uses her work in order to provoke change in the perception of environmental issues is Wenqing Yan. She publishes her art under the pseudonym of Yuumei in DeviantArt and talks about several different issues that can often be overlooked by the public.
One example is the melting of the ice caps, which will lead to devastating flooding and destruction. This particular piece of work strikes the heart of the viewer with an accusation that while we live a comfortable life, this carefree time will sooner, rather than later, run out. And we will have to face the consequences.
'Rain' is a comic-strip that demonstrates how uncontrolled manufacturing kills nature and leaves nothing in its path. Even the fact that only a single flower is growing in the drawing leaves us with an eerie feeling that recovery is slow, painful and countered by more acidic rain.
It is not just the paintings of the artist that send a message. In her comment section, Yuumei explains what she is trying to tell her audience, including provocative questions and statements, such as:
Around 78 million of the 104 million dead sharks are killed only for their fins to be put into shark fin soup. The soup is a popular dish in Asian countries, and falsely believed to have health benefits such as sex life enhancement. Shark finning is the cruel act of cutting off the shark’s fins while it is still alive, then the still living shark is wastefully thrown back into the ocean to die a slow and painful death. Can you imagine the agony of someone chopping off your arms and legs and leaving you to bleed to death just so they can have a make believe better sex life?Yuumei is an influential artist at DeviantArt who uses her talent for a good cause. This shows that creativity is not used only for personal expression or the acquisition of profit. Creativity generates ideas, sends messages, nurtures communities and inspires actions. It strikes the public in a stronger manner than written information. Additionally, the effect from this artist is stronger, as she is being listened to by people who admire and respect her work, rather than a passive audience who is bombarded with messages that they do not wish to listen to.
I believe that artistic movements such as this are a strong way to boost awareness about not just the environment, but also other issues such as racism, inequality, poverty and abuse.
Creativity's Weapon against Information Overload: Infographics
Visual representation of information has always been present, but the usage of infographics has significantly increased since 2007 due to the usage of digital media platforms. Why is this? There is actually an inforgraphic that answers that particular question, which you can find here.
Neomam Studios show thirteen reasons why people find infographics a more appealing way of receiving information than reading or listening. Visual representation of data is faster, more engaging and more memorable. A picture is worth a thousand words, but when you compare how much time each would take, it becomes obvious which option would be preferable.
Keeping in mind that digital media has introduced an era of information overload, attention spans and memory space have significantly decreased. Not only are time-consuming pieces of information harder to perceive, they are easier to forget. Often we even decide not to pay attention. Infographics tackle all of these issues, because they engage our senses. Color and design inspire novelty, which, according to Mark Smiciklas, attracts attention when our brains have become accustomed to similarities and have stopped paying attention (2012).
Infographics have actually been used long before the appearance of the World Wide Web. One example is Florence Nightingale's infographic introduced to battle mortality among British troops during the Crimean War.
The reason behind the rapid increase in their popularity is the opportunity for people to share them through social media. Additionally, since the population has shifted from traditional media to digital platforms, businesses and organizations use this medium in order to reach people and convey their messages more effectively (Lankow, 2012). Infographics' visual appeal and novelty attracts attention and inspires, turning long and dull passages into an interactive and enjoyable experience.
Sources:
LANKOW, J., RITCHIE, J., CROOKS, R., 2012, Infographics: The Power of Visual Storytelling, Wiley
SMICIKLAS, M., 2012, The Power of Infographics: using pictures to communicate and connect with your audiences, Que Publishing
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| Pictures taken as snapshot from original website. |
Keeping in mind that digital media has introduced an era of information overload, attention spans and memory space have significantly decreased. Not only are time-consuming pieces of information harder to perceive, they are easier to forget. Often we even decide not to pay attention. Infographics tackle all of these issues, because they engage our senses. Color and design inspire novelty, which, according to Mark Smiciklas, attracts attention when our brains have become accustomed to similarities and have stopped paying attention (2012).
Infographics have actually been used long before the appearance of the World Wide Web. One example is Florence Nightingale's infographic introduced to battle mortality among British troops during the Crimean War.
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| Image taken from here. |
The reason behind the rapid increase in their popularity is the opportunity for people to share them through social media. Additionally, since the population has shifted from traditional media to digital platforms, businesses and organizations use this medium in order to reach people and convey their messages more effectively (Lankow, 2012). Infographics' visual appeal and novelty attracts attention and inspires, turning long and dull passages into an interactive and enjoyable experience.
Sources:
LANKOW, J., RITCHIE, J., CROOKS, R., 2012, Infographics: The Power of Visual Storytelling, Wiley
SMICIKLAS, M., 2012, The Power of Infographics: using pictures to communicate and connect with your audiences, Que Publishing
Blogception
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| Image taken from here. |
These are questions which have recently attracted academic attention, since the usage of blogs has considerably increased in the last decade. Nowadays, thousands of blogs are launched and millions of posts are published on a daily basis. To be more precise, according to D. Sifry, over 1.3 million posts joined the World Wide Web every day by 2006. At the same time, if this activity was to be put in perspective, all of the bloggers are internet users, but not all internet users are bloggers - only around 8% of them actually indulged in such a hobby (Huang, 2007).
There has been much speculation on what the purpose of blogging is. The challenge in answering this question lies within the fact that every blog is different, much like their authors, and are maintained for a different reason. Academics are even struggling to find a general definition for the activity. Every participant perceives it differently, for their own personal purposes and goals. One blog can be dedicated to the keeping of a personal journal or diary, where personal emotions and expression are dominant. Another blog can be designed for citizen journalism, where the style and tone is more formal, serious, and the subjects it touches upon have nothing in common with feelings. Sports, art, politics, environmental issues...anything a person can think of can become the topic of a blog. Jeff Javis puts it like this (Garden, 2012):
There is no need to define ‘blog’. A blog is merely a tool that lets you do anything from change the world to share your shopping list. I resist even calling it a medium; it is a means of sharing information and also of interacting: It’s more about conversation than content … Blogs are whatever they want to be. Blogs are whatever we make them. Defining ‘blog’ is a fool’s errand.Academics have attempted to pinpoint the motivations behind blogging and the identities behind their authors. One study demonstrates that there are five main reasons behind it (Nardi, 2004):
- To document one's personal experiences
- To comment on events or subjects
- To express one's emotions
- To create through the art of writing
- To become a part of a community
Huang and his team confirmed these findings, but also added another notion - the purpose of gathering information. Blogs are mainly connected to other blogs, therefore allowing people to source data more effectively. It is also important to note that these reasons are not mutually exclusive and are most often combined.
The reason behind my decision that blogging is a creative activity is that it involves much more than endless banter and empty words. Regardless of the topic it touches upon, every blog requires its author to practice not only writing skills, but also demonstrate designing capabilities. Blogs are increasingly becoming more sophisticated, with more options on customization that allow for everyone to apply a personal touch to their own creation. Professionally made blogs take long hours of maintenance, care and even imagination in order to be interesting and challenging.
Sources:
GARDEN, M., 2012, Defining blog: A fool’s errand or a necessary undertaking, [online] Available at: here [Accessed 27 April 2014]
HUANG, C., et. al., 2007, Bloggers' Motivations and Behaviors: A Model, [online] Available at: here [Accessed 27 April 2014]
HUANG, C., et. al., 2007, Bloggers' Motivations and Behaviors: A Model, [online] Available at: here [Accessed 27 April 2014]
NARDI, B. ,et. al., 2004, Why We Blog, [online] Available at: here [Accessed 27 April 2014]
Tuesday, 29 April 2014
Fan fiction: The Keyboard is Mightier than the Sword
One aspect of creativity that digital media particularly influences is creative writing. More specifically, the writing of fan fiction. This is a topic which has caused considerable controversy among professional writers and amateurs alike.
Fan fiction can be many things, but it mainly involves taking characters or worlds from other artists and writing stories with them. The sky is the limit as far as what people can do with fan fiction, ranging from alternative endings to establishing unexpected relationships between different characters. There are hundreds of websites which people use to upload and read fan fiction, including LiveJournal, Tumblr and DeviantArt. The main platform, however, is Fanfiction.net, where you can find alternative versions of just about anything. Books, movies, video games, even the Bible.
Fan fiction holds several benefits which should not be overlooked. As in any hobby, practicing it can help you attain and improve certain skills. In this case, the acquisition of language, writing and reading skills are particularly important. A study from Rebecca W. Black shows that young people who study English as a second language and turn to fan fiction find it easier to develop, as the method is engaging, entertaining and enjoyable (Black, 2006). Not only are they indulging in an activity that involves stories and ideas that they like, but it also allows them to give free reign to their imagination and perceive themselves as creative individuals.
In most situations, fan fiction is not created for the purpose of gaining some sort of profit. It would be more accurate to perceive it as fans keeping the fictional world alive in their minds. Because, ultimately, once you finish a piece of fiction that you have found exceptionally enjoyable, what happens after that? Some swiftly forget about it and move to the next thing. Others prefer to maintain the world that they have so thoroughly enjoyed and connect with others who share their interests. That is the how different fan communities form, supporting and sustaining the story long after it has finished.
Some pieces of fan fiction actually do get published, but this is mostly for works that are not copyrighted. One example is a book based on Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice, which takes the basic idea of the story and spices it up with the notion of...zombies. Yes, zombies.
While the notion of zombies in classical fiction can seem amusing, the situation can get complicated once copyright is involved. Some writers approve of fan fiction based on their work and encourage it. One benefit behind such a decision is that fan fiction communities will keep their works alive and relevant. Another is that by not curbing communities' enthusiasm, they do not damage their reputation.
There is a reason for professionals to be concerned about fan fiction, as Martin states in his statement here. As much as the writer can demand copyright over his ideas, so can his fans. If any work in progress happens to have any ideas in common with fan fiction published online, fans have the right to sue and seek their legal rights. So far, no single consensus has been reached among all writers and it ultimately depends on their decision alone whether or not fan fiction can be allowed for certain pieces of work.
Sources:
BLACK, R., 2006 , Language, Culture, and Identity in Online Fanfiction, [online], Available at: here [Accessed 15 April 2014]
MARTIN, G., 2010, Someone is Angry On the Internet, [online], Available at: here. [Accessed 15 April 2014]
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| Logo of Fanfiction.net. Image taken from here. |
Fan fiction can be many things, but it mainly involves taking characters or worlds from other artists and writing stories with them. The sky is the limit as far as what people can do with fan fiction, ranging from alternative endings to establishing unexpected relationships between different characters. There are hundreds of websites which people use to upload and read fan fiction, including LiveJournal, Tumblr and DeviantArt. The main platform, however, is Fanfiction.net, where you can find alternative versions of just about anything. Books, movies, video games, even the Bible.
Fan fiction holds several benefits which should not be overlooked. As in any hobby, practicing it can help you attain and improve certain skills. In this case, the acquisition of language, writing and reading skills are particularly important. A study from Rebecca W. Black shows that young people who study English as a second language and turn to fan fiction find it easier to develop, as the method is engaging, entertaining and enjoyable (Black, 2006). Not only are they indulging in an activity that involves stories and ideas that they like, but it also allows them to give free reign to their imagination and perceive themselves as creative individuals.
In most situations, fan fiction is not created for the purpose of gaining some sort of profit. It would be more accurate to perceive it as fans keeping the fictional world alive in their minds. Because, ultimately, once you finish a piece of fiction that you have found exceptionally enjoyable, what happens after that? Some swiftly forget about it and move to the next thing. Others prefer to maintain the world that they have so thoroughly enjoyed and connect with others who share their interests. That is the how different fan communities form, supporting and sustaining the story long after it has finished.
Some pieces of fan fiction actually do get published, but this is mostly for works that are not copyrighted. One example is a book based on Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice, which takes the basic idea of the story and spices it up with the notion of...zombies. Yes, zombies.
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| Image taken from here. |
While the notion of zombies in classical fiction can seem amusing, the situation can get complicated once copyright is involved. Some writers approve of fan fiction based on their work and encourage it. One benefit behind such a decision is that fan fiction communities will keep their works alive and relevant. Another is that by not curbing communities' enthusiasm, they do not damage their reputation.
There are those writers who strongly disapprove of fan fiction. One such example is George R. Martin, who has explicitly stated on his website his position on the situation (Martin, 2010):
My characters are my children, I have been heard to say. I don't want people making off with them, thank you. Even people who say they love my children.
There is a reason for professionals to be concerned about fan fiction, as Martin states in his statement here. As much as the writer can demand copyright over his ideas, so can his fans. If any work in progress happens to have any ideas in common with fan fiction published online, fans have the right to sue and seek their legal rights. So far, no single consensus has been reached among all writers and it ultimately depends on their decision alone whether or not fan fiction can be allowed for certain pieces of work.
Sources:
BLACK, R., 2006 , Language, Culture, and Identity in Online Fanfiction, [online], Available at: here [Accessed 15 April 2014]
MARTIN, G., 2010, Someone is Angry On the Internet, [online], Available at: here. [Accessed 15 April 2014]
'Open' Art: My Project is Your Project
Traditional creativity is mainly connected to 'closed' or 'finished' pieces of art that are relayed to the public upon their completion. Paintings in galleries, books in bookstores, videos on the screen. They have been completed before the viewer even has the chance to experience them, rendering him incapable of contributing to the entire project. Is this the case with art when it comes to digital media?
The answer is 'no'. Artists have increasingly given viewers the opportunity to participate in their projects, contributing in one way or another - creating alternative endings, changing compositions, colors, textures. One such example is a project produced by HerraizSoto & Co, which is simple and beautiful at the same time. You can find the link to the website here.
The text that appears in the beginning explains the idea in a very simple manner. 'Move around wherever you like, wherever the song leads you. In the end you'll have something of your own creation...' Once the text fades and the music starts, it is entirely up to you (and your mouse's sensitivity and speed) what happens from this point onward. Yes, most of the effects and their timing have been pre-decided, but the final product will be absolutely unique and unlike any other attempt. You are able to express your own perception and emotional response to the song, allowing your own creativity to take over, rather than just accepting someone else's idea.
Scott McQuire and Natalia Radywyl identify such projects as evidence of the changing perceptions of creative work due to digital media's influence (McQuire, 2010). They describe these projects as 'becoming', rather than 'being', because they are not finalized, but are instead left open to interpretation and experimentation. This further enhances the experience of art, turning it into a type of interactive event:
I find this project breathtakingly beautiful. Not only is the song very gentle, but the effects and the layout of the website have a very delicate feeling to them. The ink effect matches the intimacy of the song, turning the entire venture into a gentle expression of emotion. The song itself is named "Soy Tu Aire" and is by Virginia Labuat. I've included the YouTube video below.
Sources:
1)MCQUIRE, S., RADYWYL, N., 2010, From Object to Platform: Art, digital technology and time, [online], Available at: here. [Accessed 10 April 2014]
The answer is 'no'. Artists have increasingly given viewers the opportunity to participate in their projects, contributing in one way or another - creating alternative endings, changing compositions, colors, textures. One such example is a project produced by HerraizSoto & Co, which is simple and beautiful at the same time. You can find the link to the website here.
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| Picture taken as a snapshot from original website. |
Scott McQuire and Natalia Radywyl identify such projects as evidence of the changing perceptions of creative work due to digital media's influence (McQuire, 2010). They describe these projects as 'becoming', rather than 'being', because they are not finalized, but are instead left open to interpretation and experimentation. This further enhances the experience of art, turning it into a type of interactive event:
When the ‘content’ of art is increasingly generated in the momentary encounter between public and artwork, this setting can also draw contemporary art closer to the so-called ‘experience economy’.The reason why digital media platforms are a major influence in projects like this is because it makes them accessible, they become easier to promote, and are simple to use. The spread of the idea is also faster through the use of social media, which popularizes the project more successfully than having it on display in a museum or art gallery. At the end of the song, you are able to send the final video via email to a friend, inviting them to join and share their own versions.
I find this project breathtakingly beautiful. Not only is the song very gentle, but the effects and the layout of the website have a very delicate feeling to them. The ink effect matches the intimacy of the song, turning the entire venture into a gentle expression of emotion. The song itself is named "Soy Tu Aire" and is by Virginia Labuat. I've included the YouTube video below.
Sources:
1)MCQUIRE, S., RADYWYL, N., 2010, From Object to Platform: Art, digital technology and time, [online], Available at: here. [Accessed 10 April 2014]
Monday, 28 April 2014
SoundCloud: Sharing is Caring
Creativity. Music. Digital media. Mash this all together and you get something like...SoundCloud. A digital platform which allows users to upload and share their own songs, recordings or podcasts, making it accessible to anyone who would be interested. As an example, I have included one of my personal favorites, which is a remix of Foreigner's Cold as Ice by A.Skillz.
It seems only natural for a platform like SoundCloud to exist. It started off as a website designed for musicians who wanted a fast and easy way to exchange recordings and ideas. Considering that sharing content is the epicenter of social media, it is not surprising that SoundCloud became so successful, with over ten million registered users to this date. The founding team even created a Storywheel to mark the occasion, which you can find here.
According to the two founders, Alex Ljung and Eric Wahlforss, they started with a humble mission - to give musicians the opportunity to share recordings with one another faster than before (Buskirk, 2009). Their success is mainly attributed to the fact that, unlike MySpace, content uploaded to SoundCloud can also be shared on other forms of social media.
There are many reasons why using SoundCloud is a good idea. For smaller artists and musicians, the platforms provides a chance for them to make themselves known on social media and gain popularity. By sharing their sounds and projects, they can receive support, feedback and even recognition that can kickstart a serious career. For the established artists, it is a way of maintaining their image and actively engaging their audience by sharing exclusive content or remixes of their original work.
I find the notion of sharing to be crucial for creativity. The exchange of ideas and resources makes musical experimentation broader, braver and better than ever before. However, users do not use SoundCloud only to be creative. The platform has also become an outlet for political activists and has as a result been banned from servers in Turkey. The reason behind such a move is a recording of Turkish prime minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan being uploaded onto the platform. The recording shows how he has accepted bribes that would allow illegal construction plans to take place (Arango, 2014).
Sources:
ARANGO, T., YEGINSU, C., 2014, Amid Flow of Leaks, Turkey moves to Crimp Internet, [online] Available at: here. [Accessed 10 April 2014]
BUSKIRK, E., 2009, SoundCloud Threatens MySpace as Music Destination for Twitter Era, [online] Available at: here. [Accessed 10 April 2014]
It seems only natural for a platform like SoundCloud to exist. It started off as a website designed for musicians who wanted a fast and easy way to exchange recordings and ideas. Considering that sharing content is the epicenter of social media, it is not surprising that SoundCloud became so successful, with over ten million registered users to this date. The founding team even created a Storywheel to mark the occasion, which you can find here.
According to the two founders, Alex Ljung and Eric Wahlforss, they started with a humble mission - to give musicians the opportunity to share recordings with one another faster than before (Buskirk, 2009). Their success is mainly attributed to the fact that, unlike MySpace, content uploaded to SoundCloud can also be shared on other forms of social media.
There are many reasons why using SoundCloud is a good idea. For smaller artists and musicians, the platforms provides a chance for them to make themselves known on social media and gain popularity. By sharing their sounds and projects, they can receive support, feedback and even recognition that can kickstart a serious career. For the established artists, it is a way of maintaining their image and actively engaging their audience by sharing exclusive content or remixes of their original work.
I find the notion of sharing to be crucial for creativity. The exchange of ideas and resources makes musical experimentation broader, braver and better than ever before. However, users do not use SoundCloud only to be creative. The platform has also become an outlet for political activists and has as a result been banned from servers in Turkey. The reason behind such a move is a recording of Turkish prime minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan being uploaded onto the platform. The recording shows how he has accepted bribes that would allow illegal construction plans to take place (Arango, 2014).
Sources:
ARANGO, T., YEGINSU, C., 2014, Amid Flow of Leaks, Turkey moves to Crimp Internet, [online] Available at: here. [Accessed 10 April 2014]
BUSKIRK, E., 2009, SoundCloud Threatens MySpace as Music Destination for Twitter Era, [online] Available at: here. [Accessed 10 April 2014]
Saturday, 26 April 2014
Google and Pokemon's April Fool's Quest
On the first of April, Google and Nintendo teamed up to launch one of the most creative April Fool's jokes I have seen so far - Google Maps: Pokemon Challenge.
The idea is for people to use their smartphones to explore the world and find all of the pokemons scattered all over the globe. Users had a deadline of one day to finish their quest. In reality, if you collect all of the pokemons and win the title of Pokemon Master, you will not really be shortlisted for a job at Google, but the entire experience is fun and engaging. What this is mainly perceived as is a mobile game. I also see it as a clever and creative way of advertising.
You may be wondering why advertising would be relevant to a blog about creativity. The reason is because creativity is essential for marketers to ensure that their messages are received and memorized by their target audience. Companies have been struggling with successfully integrating digital media into their advertising strategies for some time. The best way to avoid annoying or disengaging the consumer is to incorporate creativity into their digital campaigns, which prove costly and challenging. Ideas can cost a significant amount of money and their implementation requires thorough knowledge of how the modern mobile user interacts with digital media. Otherwise, the message will not reach its target as effectively as desired.
If there is anyone who knows what people want best, it is definitely Google. Not only do they have all of the data, they also have the necessary platforms and assets to bring any of their ideas back to life. And partnering with Nintendo's giant success, Pokemon, was certainly a smart move.
Advertising through smartphones can be tricky, but it is a platform that has increasingly attracted the attention of corporations. Rowan Wilken and John Sinclair put it like this (Wilken, 2009):
What I particularly like about this project is that the advertising intentions become insignificant to the user, because the mobile feature was so creative and fun. Pixel pokemons were sprinkled over the entire Google Maps interface, challenging users to 'catch 'em all'.
Instead of bombarding users with messages, Google and Nintendo decided to be more engaging by providing them with a challenging game. They also relied on the fun and easy-going theme of April Fools, which has always been a useful occasion for lighthearted campaigns from both big and small organizations.
Sources:
HEGGESTUEN, J., 2013, One In Every 5 People In The World Own A Smartphone, One In Every 17 Own A Tablet [online], Available at: here. [Accessed 9 April 2014]
WILKEN, R., SINCLAIR, J., 2009, 'Waiting for the Kiss of Life': Mobile Media and Advertising, [online] Available at: here. [Accessed 9 April 2014]
The idea is for people to use their smartphones to explore the world and find all of the pokemons scattered all over the globe. Users had a deadline of one day to finish their quest. In reality, if you collect all of the pokemons and win the title of Pokemon Master, you will not really be shortlisted for a job at Google, but the entire experience is fun and engaging. What this is mainly perceived as is a mobile game. I also see it as a clever and creative way of advertising.
You may be wondering why advertising would be relevant to a blog about creativity. The reason is because creativity is essential for marketers to ensure that their messages are received and memorized by their target audience. Companies have been struggling with successfully integrating digital media into their advertising strategies for some time. The best way to avoid annoying or disengaging the consumer is to incorporate creativity into their digital campaigns, which prove costly and challenging. Ideas can cost a significant amount of money and their implementation requires thorough knowledge of how the modern mobile user interacts with digital media. Otherwise, the message will not reach its target as effectively as desired.
If there is anyone who knows what people want best, it is definitely Google. Not only do they have all of the data, they also have the necessary platforms and assets to bring any of their ideas back to life. And partnering with Nintendo's giant success, Pokemon, was certainly a smart move.
Advertising through smartphones can be tricky, but it is a platform that has increasingly attracted the attention of corporations. Rowan Wilken and John Sinclair put it like this (Wilken, 2009):
Considering that one in five people own a smartphone (Heggestuen, 2013), and the numbers are rising each day, this can be a lucrative means of advertising.With the arrival of 3G technology, the mobile phone – at least from a marketing perspective – works increasingly as a kind of mobile ‘portal’ to connect consumers with the mobile internet, and thus, by extension, advertisers and content providers more directly with consumers.
What I particularly like about this project is that the advertising intentions become insignificant to the user, because the mobile feature was so creative and fun. Pixel pokemons were sprinkled over the entire Google Maps interface, challenging users to 'catch 'em all'.
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| Original image from here |
Sources:
HEGGESTUEN, J., 2013, One In Every 5 People In The World Own A Smartphone, One In Every 17 Own A Tablet [online], Available at: here. [Accessed 9 April 2014]
WILKEN, R., SINCLAIR, J., 2009, 'Waiting for the Kiss of Life': Mobile Media and Advertising, [online] Available at: here. [Accessed 9 April 2014]
Is YouTube Content Creative or Profane?
Digital media has played its part in the creation of modern art, which has been a cause for debate for some time now. Platforms such as YouTube started off as a video-sharing site where content was mostly generated by amateurs who were not aiming at gaining profit or publicity. With the rapid expansion of the site, however, things have changed and now many have developed their interaction with YouTube from a hobby into a serious career that they support themselves with. The question here is whether their videos could be considered an acceptable for of creativity, or are they just the by-product of a generation which cannot appreciate true art?
In order to answer that question, we need to look into the type of content that YouTube features. And the moment we start, it becomes obvious that bringing up a general example is just not possible. The platform is the backbone of hundreds of creative endeavors which can be incredibly random and different from one another.
In order to answer that question, we need to look into the type of content that YouTube features. And the moment we start, it becomes obvious that bringing up a general example is just not possible. The platform is the backbone of hundreds of creative endeavors which can be incredibly random and different from one another.
The best step would be to summarize what is regarded as the most popular type of content. YouTube have been compiling a selection of a year's most viral videos together into a colorful mashup. This has been happening since 2010 and so far four videos have brought together hundreds of people who channel their creative ideas into one project. I think that last year's compilation was the best so far, with much more attention to technical detail and quality. Every act was also neatly brought together by a similar theme.
It is a rather chaotic mix of...just about anything that went viral last year. Harlem Shake, Macklemore, Blurred Lines. It also features many YouTube stars, some of whom have been in the rewind videos from the start.
Some might argue whether this piece of work can be put under the creative and artistic category. YouTube is known for being a platform used by amateurs and professionals alike. However, it is the unprofessional content that has caused controversy on whether videos such as 'YouTube Rewind' can be considered a form or art. Most commonly, unprofessionally produced videos are not considered a part of high culture. In his book The Cult of the Amateur, Andrew Keen describes user-generated content as useless and profane. He also labels active YouTubers as 'videographer monkeys' (2008). Memes that gain popularity through YouTube do not hold any aesthetic value and have nothing in common with classical art.
I find such as statement to be unprofessional and showing of a limited view. User-generated content is a fine example of how modern art can break the mold. YouTubers' ideas can be innovative, with people thinking outside of the box, because their efforts are not always aimed at gaining profit. Additionally, it has increasingly become apparent that a project is not creative only because it has been deigned as such by a specialist. David Gauntlett argues that following only specialists' opinions of what is creative and what is not destroys the concept of new and fresh talent, which hinders the development of art in general (2011).
The ideas, time and effort put into this project certainly deserve some form of recognition. You can see humor, you can see complex choreography, you can see acting. Design, cinematography, editing, music. Many examples of what is considered creative and artistic. The fact that it is unconventional does not make it unworthy of praise. In reality, many of the YouTubers in the video started their careers as amateurs who created content in order to connect with others. Their efforts were aimed at being able to express themselves and establish a connection with those who have similar interests.
Some might argue whether this piece of work can be put under the creative and artistic category. YouTube is known for being a platform used by amateurs and professionals alike. However, it is the unprofessional content that has caused controversy on whether videos such as 'YouTube Rewind' can be considered a form or art. Most commonly, unprofessionally produced videos are not considered a part of high culture. In his book The Cult of the Amateur, Andrew Keen describes user-generated content as useless and profane. He also labels active YouTubers as 'videographer monkeys' (2008). Memes that gain popularity through YouTube do not hold any aesthetic value and have nothing in common with classical art.
I find such as statement to be unprofessional and showing of a limited view. User-generated content is a fine example of how modern art can break the mold. YouTubers' ideas can be innovative, with people thinking outside of the box, because their efforts are not always aimed at gaining profit. Additionally, it has increasingly become apparent that a project is not creative only because it has been deigned as such by a specialist. David Gauntlett argues that following only specialists' opinions of what is creative and what is not destroys the concept of new and fresh talent, which hinders the development of art in general (2011).
The ideas, time and effort put into this project certainly deserve some form of recognition. You can see humor, you can see complex choreography, you can see acting. Design, cinematography, editing, music. Many examples of what is considered creative and artistic. The fact that it is unconventional does not make it unworthy of praise. In reality, many of the YouTubers in the video started their careers as amateurs who created content in order to connect with others. Their efforts were aimed at being able to express themselves and establish a connection with those who have similar interests.
When you watch the video, you see not only acts from self-created YouTube stars, but also from professionals in the entertainment industry. This is something I particularly enjoy, as it shows that creativity and entertainment has shifted from glossy polished acts to raw and personal pieces of work. It shows that anyone can be creative, because these are people who are just like you and me.
YouTube has also uploaded 'Behind the Scenes' footage, which shows how the shots were taken:
It is plain to see that this was not an easy feat. The whole process took them four full days of filming. Hundreds of people were involved, who devoted time and energy to this project, just to make the viewer on the other side of the screen smile. I find this not only creative. I find it beautiful, a great way to show that art can be fun, not just professional. If in some alternate universe I was asked to join for next year's production, I would love to.
Sources:
GAUNTLETT, D., 2011, Making is Connecting: The Social Meaning of Creativity, from DIY and Knitting to YouTube and Web 2.0., Polity Press
KEEN, A., 2008, The Cult of the Amateur: How blogs, MySpace, YouTube, and the rest of today's user-generated media are destroying our economy, our culture, and our values, Doubleday
Sources:
GAUNTLETT, D., 2011, Making is Connecting: The Social Meaning of Creativity, from DIY and Knitting to YouTube and Web 2.0., Polity Press
KEEN, A., 2008, The Cult of the Amateur: How blogs, MySpace, YouTube, and the rest of today's user-generated media are destroying our economy, our culture, and our values, Doubleday
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