Sunday, April 13, 2008

Wikipedia

After researching some topics in which i am interested in on Wikipedia, I have found it to be quite useful, however in parts, it can be inaccurate. For example, while researching the film, A night at the Roxbury, I have found that most information is correct, however, wrong information has been given about crucial events which take place during the film. This misinformation given has the power to completely alter the perception of the film. In another example, the legendary life of Jimi Hendrix has been documented by Wikipedia, with some cruicial information misrepresented, or completely false. This supports the notion that while Wikipedia is useful for gaining a limited understanding on a particular topic, it should not be used as a specific source for gaining information. It often creates emphasis on certain aspects of the information, which do not require emphasis. This makes one question the intentions of those who write such information, as well as the power they inhibit in doing so.

Sunday, April 6, 2008

Art

The definition of "art" is a forever changing concept. With the availability of modern technology, ordinary people with no definitive talent, are able to create what are now being referred to as works of "art". This undoubtedly creates a lack of appreciation of traditional artistic talent through programs such as photoshop, which allows individuals to edit pictures in order to give them a more 'artistic' feel. There is little skill required to do so, yet the results are often quite amazing. Photoshopper's are able to turn the most simple photograph into a work of art. Basically, anyone in possession of a computer, is able to create things that have been traditionally reserved for skilled professionals. Through the use of new age digital technology, the authenticity of traditional artworks is being destroyed. 'Art' has always been a broad concept, expanding through different forms and genres. However, in modern society, that expansion has been taken to a new level. It is difficult to predict the future for authentic art, however I believe its safe to say that the appreciation of 'real' artworks is lagging, and this will only become more prominent in the years to come.