A close look at the history and evolution of digital art though the Whitney’s pioneering role in the field

In the age of technology, no medium better reflects our evolving relationship to critical themes of privacy, identity, and self-perception than digital art. Over the last twenty-five years, the Whitney Museum of American Art has shaped the field of digital art, setting a precedent for commissioning and exhibiting art through their web-based platform artport. From early experiments in digital art to unique portals to artists’ projects, artport’s collection offers a sweeping look at the scope and rapid advancement of digital art. By surveying artport’s full collection of works, artport: 2001–2026 chronicles the recent history and evolution of the field. 

An essay by author Christiane Paul prefaces three sections on critical themes in digital art and establishes this in-depth publication as an essential introduction to the field. By closely examining how digital art reflects shifting societal concerns, social norms, media environments, and technological possibilities, contributing essayists illuminate how and why digital art is a true barometer of its time. 

Distributed for the Whitney Museum of American Art

Exhibition schedule:

Whitney Museum of American Art, New York

(November 21, 2026–January 2027)

Christiane Paul is Curator of Digital Art at the Whitney Museum of American Art, New York.