A few thoughts on craft and its replacement with technology. What happens when computers and technology overrun all skilled labor and craft? Is it possible for these crafts to be eliminated? And if they are, how are we able to explore new ideas with these materials? It would seem a necessity to maintain the trades, artisian works at some level, otherwise we would not be able to program a machine to make these cuts in wood or stone. But perhaps this isn't necessary, as in the case of laser cutting of 3D models.
One craft, or skill that seems to have virtually vanished, is the skill of handwriting. It still exists, but in our everyday world, it seems all but gone. The writing of most people has become so horrendous that they themselves cannot even begin to decipher it. Lets say that handwriting becomes a lost art, and we rely solely on computers, is this a bad thing? Does it even matter? Maybe it is because there are no more trees or paper to write on, or that it has become so expensive that the concept doing this is ridiculous. What do you think?
2 commenti:
well I hope that you don't see abstracting craft about replacing craft with technology. There is no question that new technologies, new crafts, focus on some elements while concealing others. Not only is handwriting become a lost art, technology affects language as well. Just think how IM'g has affected popular discourse, or other sayings "google me." Point is, language and skills evolve. Should we ignore what skills get passed up? No way, and I think we should be critical of how certain technologies obscure other ways of life. But in stead of arguing about which is which, perhaps we should continue to do both - send a handwritten letter home....
Good point. I also find it interesting that what was once the norm (hand written) has become something special. When I receive a paper letter it is much more exciting than an email. Perhaps it is solely the effort, but I think it is knowing that the other person has worked with these materials that I know hold in my hands that make this something special, and with that said, I think craft by way of hand will always be something that people appreciate.
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