Digital Art and Virtual Tourism Mobility: A Critical Discussion

Traditionally, art tourism involves tourists whose mobilities were determined by their motivation to see and enjoy art, often consumed within confined spaces such as exhibition halls, galleries, museums, etc. However, with the digitalisation of art and space, and evolving visitor demands, mobility patterns have significantly changed for both the artist and the admirer of art. Digitisation (conversion of physical into virtual content), digitalisation (processing of digitized content), and now virtual art, have transferred the traditional physical art space to that of a virtual space. In this process, art-based mobilities that were previously determined by space, time, money, or location barriers have been redefined, showcasing significant implications for travel and tourism. This issue is especially applicable in the context of Asia, where travel restrictions bind many in the neo-colonial political era. Consumption of art is no longer defined by a traditional perception of ‘elite spaces,’ and exclusivity, but breaks boundaries previously defined by the inside-outside dichotomy. In the virtual space, one can cross all boundaries previously defined by politics, including national, ethnic, or class boundaries. Thus, in this chapter, we discuss the implications of the digital art technology in democratizing consumption and engagement patterns of artists and art consumers. Taking an Asian perspective, we discuss how the implementation of digital art technology, may enhance the visibility, engagement, and access to Asian art consumers, challenging traditional boundaries, and dominant dichotomies.