Rafaël Rozendaal

Rafaël Rozendaal's "Non Either" (2022) is a captivating exploration of digital abstraction, where the artist delves into the interplay between light and dark, movement, and the infinite possibilities of the internet as a canvas. This piece, part of the Art Blocks Collection, showcases Rozendaal's ongoing fascination with the internet's potential as a medium for art, transcending traditional boundaries and redefining the viewer's interaction with digital art.

The Essence of "Non Either"

"Non Either" is characterized by its dynamic, responsive nature. Circles move in and out, some light, some dark, creating a visual rhythm that adapts seamlessly to any screen size and resolution[3][7]. This adaptability is a testament to Rozendaal's commitment to making art accessible and immersive, ensuring that the viewer's experience is consistent across various devices, from smartphones to large-scale LED screens[6]. The work's title, "Non Either," hints at the ambiguity and fluidity of digital art, where traditional notions of form and content are challenged.

Artistic Philosophy and Technique

Rozendaal's approach to art is deeply rooted in the idea of abstraction as an intensification of perception[6]. His process begins with a storyboard sketched on paper, which is then translated into code, resulting in an algorithm that generates the animation in real time[6]. This method underscores his belief in the internet as a canvas, where art can be both ephemeral and eternal, accessible to anyone, anywhere, anytime[6]. The artist's choice of the internet as his medium reflects his desire to democratize art, making it a shared experience rather than an exclusive one.

The Intersection of Online and Offline

Rozendaal's work often blurs the lines between the digital and physical realms. His installation at the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), titled "Light," exemplifies this by presenting his digital animations in a physical space, creating an immersive environment that challenges the viewer's perception of reality[6]. This installation, curated by Paola Antonelli, showcases Rozendaal's ability to merge the virtual with the tangible, suggesting a future where screens and surfaces are indistinguishable[6].

Critical Reception and Impact

Critics have noted the inherent banality and playful aesthetic of Rozendaal's work, which often acts as a mirror to its surroundings, reflecting and questioning the context in which it is placed[4]. His exhibitions, like "Permanent Distraction" at Site Gallery, Sheffield, have sparked discussions on the role of digital art in physical spaces, questioning the essence of interaction with art in the digital age[4]. Rozendaal's practice has evolved to incorporate various media, from websites to haikus, demonstrating his versatility and the expansive nature of his artistic inquiry[8].

Conclusion

"Non Either" by Rafaël Rozendaal is not just a piece of digital art; it is a statement on the evolving nature of art in the digital era. It invites viewers to engage with art in a new way, where the boundaries between the artist, the artwork, and the audience are fluid. Rozendaal's work continues to push the envelope, exploring the visual and conceptual opportunities offered by the internet, making "Non Either" a significant contribution to the discourse on digital art and its place in contemporary culture.

Citations:
[1] https://dismagazine.com/discussion/73124/rafael-rozendaal-abstract-browsing/
[2] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GjR1lsem6tw
[3] https://www.artblocks.io/marketplace/collections/non-either-by-rafael-rozendaal
[4] https://www.saturationpoint.org.uk/Rafael Rozendaal.html
[5] https://www.les-plats-pays.com/article/lart-en-ligne-et-hors-ligne-de-rafael-rozendaal/
[6] https://www.newrafael.com
[7] https://verse.works/artworks/6f9bb614-28a3-4e84-ae5e-12597285584a/260000043
[8] https://www.stirworld.com/see-features-artist-rafael-rozendaal-talks-about-making-art-on-the-internet
[9] https://www.google.fr/policies/faq
[10] https://www.newrafael.com/non-either/