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Blythe, M., Briggs, J., Olivier, P., Hook, J., 2012.

Digital originals: reproduction as a space for design

Output Type:Conference paper
Presented at:NordiCHI '12: Nordic Conference on Human-Computer Interaction
Publication:NordiCHI '12: Proceedings of the 7th Nordic Conference on Human-Computer Interaction: Making Sense Through Design
Venue:Copenhagen, Denmark
Publisher:Association for Computing Machinery (ACM), New York
Dates:14/10/2012 - 17/10/2012
ISBN/ISSN:9781450314824
URL:doi.org/10.1145/2399016.2399018
Pagination:pp. 1-10

This paper reports findings from a qualitative study of a group of artists in the North of England. It focuses on the impact of digital technology on their printmaking and wider art practice. Four major themes emerge: apprenticeship, networks, authenticity and commodification. Each of the artists describes a long process of educational and professional apprenticeship. They reflect in detail on the value of networks of support not only in generating contacts for potential professional development but also in affirming their identity as an artist. Current practices around the production of Giclée prints are considered in detail and related to more general problems of what constitutes authentic work and the problems of commodification. After reporting findings from the qualitative study the paper presents initial concept design work around the notion of a "slow print". It also discusses an experience prototype that reveals rather than conceals digital practice. It considers the notion of an original as a social practice and positions reproduction as a space for design.