Art-based Research in New Media Art: on the Convergence of Art Practice, Scientific Inquiry, and Technological Innovation

Generally, art and science are considered to be two different cultures. The gap between these disciplines widened because the discrete space of specialized fields of study was more convenient than total knowledge. This thesis is a statement for new collaborations between artists and scientists and an integration of both disciplines into modern society. It answers questions regarding the manner in which artists can enrich research processes and art's relevancy in connection with a technoscientific culture. This thesis provides an analysis of contemporary new media artworks that challenge our conception of the relationships between art, science and technology. It is intended to be a guide to art influenced by scientific and technological innovation that addresses research activity. The thesis also explicates historical aspects of art/science cross-fertilization and cites contemporary research centers, festivals and organizations as examples of how to promote collaborative multidisciplinary art-practice. Numerous pragmatists argue in favor of bridging the gap between art and science in order to achieve significant improvements for the prosperity of culture, academia and industry.