The intersection between arts and technology takes center stage at South Summit Madrid

South Summit Madrid 2024, the global showcase for the world’s leading companies, startups, investors and institutions, hosted a panel on the intersection of creativity and technology in today’s tech revolution. Catalina Tejero, Vice Dean of IE School of Humanities, moderated a panel with a selected group of professionals and entrepreneurs within the digital art realm: Antonina Glinina, Diego Iglesias, Daniel Canogar, and Sophie Neuendorf.

Art has always adapted to societal shifts, and technology's integration into the art world has become a powerful tool for artists in the digital age. According to Antonina Glinina, CEO of ArtSelf, "the digitalization of art means its democratization. Art has become a more creative economy in terms of accessibility, helping creators to connect better with their audience."

Building on the theme of artists connecting with their audiences, Diego Iglesias discussed the contextualization of digital art in the physical world. "Our goal is to exhibit the art pieces in the city, providing a meaningful connection between society and the digital environment, which is increasingly becoming more real," said the Co-Founder of MMMAD Festival.

The conversation engaged the audience, prompting them to explore the dynamic intersection of creativity and technology.

Daniel Canogar emphasized that artists have always used technology for innovation. "Art and technology have only been separated artificially. In the Renaissance, this separation did not exist. Artists worked with engineers to develop their projects," he noted. The renowned visual artist also highlighted the need to understand the impact of technology: "We need to reflect upon it. For me, art is a platform to think, to reflect. A non-critical world that does not process is not human."

Regarding the implications of technology for the art market, Sophie Neuendorf highlighted the emphasis on transparency in online transactions in recent years. "We are focusing on security and data privacy to create a safer space for artists," said Sophie Neuendorf, Vice President of Artnet.

María Benjumea, president and founder of South Summit, underlined the importance of the humanities in the development of a solid entrepreneurial ecosystem in the inauguration of this year’s edition of South Summit. 

"All technologies are key to the evolution of society, always being aware that people are at the center and the creators of these technologies."
María Benjumea, President and Founder of South Summit

Benjumea, who also stated that nowadays "it is more important than ever to ensure technology not only improves our lives, but that it does so in an inclusive, ethical and sustainable way by putting people at the center."