Storytelling through artistic creation of VR/AR digital technology

Abstract

The aim of this article is to study the potentiality of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) digital technology in storytelling through art expression. The methods include studies of related research and the selected artworks by 4 individual contemporary artists and a group of artists, i.e. Orlan, Lucas Aguirre, Rosalie Yu, Vladimir Storm and Pussy Riot, respectively. Research findings show that 1] artists with traditional art backgrounds are able to utilize the digital technology of VR and AR to expand their artistic creation beyond existing borders; 2] the use of digital technology of VR and AR enables artistic creation to be more convenient and faster through supportive hardware and software; and 3] VR and AR artworks can produce a new means of communication which has the ability to reach a mass audience and the psychological power to produce deep emotion. Hence, the “new toy” of digital technology is an innovation not limited to use in computer engineering or the computer gaming industry. Shortly, it will become a novel tool of emerging generations of artists, another skill in the curriculum of art schools, and another channel of art exhibition for the public. The digital technology of VR and AR is destined to grow progressively and extensively in the coming era.