The Art of Interaction: Theatre, Video Games, and the Relational Nature of Art

Introduction

John Dewey’s concept of Art as Experience emphasizes the interactive nature of art and its profound connection with everyday life. This article aims to delve into the interactive dynamics of theater and video games, asking whether the presence of an audience is essential to define these as art. In the following sections, we will explore the various aspects of these forms of artistic expression and their relationship with audiences and creators.

The Interactive Nature of Art

According to Dewey, art is not a static entity, but rather an experience that is interactive and transformative. For theater and video games, this interactivity is a defining feature. Unlike inanimate objects, which do not require audiences, the presence of an audience is crucial to the experience of both theater and video games.

Theater, as an abstract term, encompasses a wide range of collective forms of usually rehearsed entertainment performed for an audience. However, this definition does not preclude the possibility of private performances or rituals. For instance, a solo artist might perform a theatrical piece for personal gratification or religious reasons without an audience. Similarly, a rehearsal intended for a public performance can be a form of artistic expression, even if no audience is present.

The interactive nature of theater is evident in the live performance, where the audience plays a crucial role. The energy and reactions of the audience can significantly affect the performance, making each show unique. This interactivity enriches the experience for both the performers and the audience, blurring the lines between creator and consumer.

The Case of Video Games

Video games, like theater, are inherently interactive. They are designed to engage the player directly, creating a unique experience that is shaped by the player's choices and actions. However, the interactivity of video games is different from that of live theater. While theater's interaction is primarily with the live audience, video games include both human and artificial interaction.

The design of a video game is created by artists, developers, and creators, who imbue it with artistic elements such as visual aesthetics, narrative, and gameplay mechanics. However, the true interactivity lies in the player's experience. A video game like Dark Souls or Super Mario can be considered art because it is a creative expression that is experienced and shaped by the player. The player's decisions and interactions are what make the game a unique and meaningful experience.

While the creators of a video game are essential to its creation, the interactive nature of the game itself is what defines its role as art. The player, through their actions, becomes a co-creator of the experience, making each playthrough a unique instance of art.

Conclusion: The Hybrid Nature of Art

Whether theater or video games, the presence of an audience is not the sole determinant of whether something is art. The true essence of art lies in its interactivity and the transformational experience it creates for the audience and creator. Video games, despite their electronic and animated nature, are formed by artistically produced images and are essentially hybrid forms of artistic expression that combine human and artificial interaction.

Therefore, the designation of what constitutes art is left to the individual. The interactive nature of theater and video games, along with their rich experiences, make them compelling candidates for artistic status, regardless of the presence of an audience. It is the interactivity itself that elevates these forms of expression to the realm of art.

Keywords

Theater, Video Games, Art