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Some wonder if videogames can be considered Art.
GameScenes asks whether the invention of videogames has not transformed the entire character of art.
Introduced in 2006 in conjunction with the release of an eponymous book and an exhibition in Monza, Italy, GameScenes chronicles the evolution of the ludic artworld. The relationship between contemporary art and video games has evolved significantly in the past thirty years, as both fields have influenced and inspired each other in both obvious and counter-intuitive ways. Initially considered separate domains, they have gradually merged and intersected, resulting in the emergence of a new form of artistic expression known as video game art, experimental game art or game-based art. One aspect of the relationship between contemporary art and video games is the incorporation of video game aesthetics, imagery, and narratives into traditional art practices. Many contemporary artists have embraced digital game elements, such as pixel art, glitch aesthetics, and interactive storytelling, to create visually striking and immersive artworks. These artists often draw inspiration from the visual language, symbolism, and cultural references embedded within video game culture. Furthermore, video games have become a source of inspiration and subject matter for contemporary artists. They explore the themes, narratives, and socio-cultural implications embedded within video games. Artists examine topics such as identity, gender, race, power dynamics, and the impact of technology on society through their artistic interpretations of video game imagery and tropes. This exploration often involves questioning the boundaries between "reality" and "virtuality", challenging traditional notions of authorship and participation, and investigating the emotional and psychological experiences that arise from gaming.In recent years, major art institutions and museums have recognized the significance of video games as an artistic medium and have curated exhibitions specifically dedicated to video game art. This institutional recognition has further solidified the relationship between contemporary art and video games, providing a platform for artists to showcase their game-based creations and fostering critical discourse around the artistic, cultural, and social implications of video games.The relationship between contemporary art and video games continues to evolve and expand. As technology advances and the boundaries between art forms blur, artists and game designers are collaborating more frequently, pushing the boundaries of both fields and creating innovative and thought-provoking experiences. This symbiotic relationship between contemporary art and video games allows for new possibilities in artistic expression, challenging traditional notions of art and expanding our understanding of creativity in the digital age. Gamescenes provides an up-to-date chronicle of this fascinating dialogue.GameScenes.org is now accompanied by several initiatives, such as the Milan Machinima Festival and VRAL, which provide exclusive content to Patron supporters especially interested in machinima. GameScenes.org is written and edited by Matteo Bittanti.Past contributors include Mathias Jansson, Carlo Ricafort, Domenico Quaranta, Paolo Ruffino, and Valentina Tanni.Would you like to contribute? Drop us a line.The rumors are true: we are on Twitter: @gamescenes.