(d)evolution: Questioning Progress: Is Technology Your Servant, or Master?

"Remember, technology is a great servant, but a terrible master."

- Stephen Covey, author of 7 Habits of Highly Effective People

Don't get me wrong, I love digital technology.  The pixel revolution transformed how I photograph and propelled me to become a filmmaker.

However,  I am concerned when it appears that for some people technology mediates daily existence.

(d)evolution

This assemblage combines natural materials such as blueberry and raspberry ink with a hacksawed circuit board from an obsolete computer.  My artwork was accepted in The Greenfield Local Cultural Council's Fourth Annual Juried Show, “Changing.”  The opening reception is Friday, September 2, 5-8 p.m. at Greenfield Community Television (GCTV), 393 Main Street, Greenfield, Mass.

Side of a Strawberry Box

This video explores my creative process that led to creating the purple paper:



I was interviewed by GCTV about (d)evolution.

Community Television

My interview comes on at 1:50 seconds:


I invite you to consider the role technology plays in your life.  Is technology your servant, or your master?  Does technology make our lives better?  Simpler?  Easier?

Periodically staining your fingers with berry juice might be a good practice to foster perspective.  Or, perhaps, just making something.  A few generations ago, we were all makers.

Professor John Nordell teaches courses in the Visual and Digital Arts Program at American International College in Springfield, Mass. He blogs about the creative process at CreateLookEnjoy.com  Instagram: @professornordell

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