A PHILOSOPHICAL ANALYSIS OF THE ART MARKET IN THE DIGITAL AGE: HISTORICAL IDENTITY, SACRED NARRATIVES, AND CONTEMPORARY VALUE

Abstract

This study delves into the philosophical dimensions of the art market in the digital age, examining how historical identity intertwines with contemporary value. Using qualitative methods, including semi-structured interviews and case study analysis, the research investigates the strategic invocation of historical identity by artists to enhance the cultural and monetary worth of their digital creations. Findings reveal that established reputations in the traditional art world and the recontextualization of cultural artifacts—such as iconic historical events or artistic movements—significantly influence the perceived value of digital artworks. For instance, algorithmic art and daily creation processes evoke deeper narratives that resonate with historical art traditions. The study also highlights the role of blockchain technology and NFTs in ensuring authenticity, fostering trust, and redefining ownership models. Scarcity, through limited editions or unique variations, further amplifies the perceived value of digital art. Artists like Beeple leverage their pre-digital careers and innovative techniques to command substantial market attention, while works such as Grimes’s "The Persistence of Chaos" illustrate the influence of celebrity on value creation. The research underscores the philosophical and cultural significance of digital art, exploring how historical identity and technological innovation converge to shape contemporary artistic value systems within a globalized digital marketplace.