Does a work lose authenticity when digitized?

The question of whether a work loses authenticity when digitized has generated widespread debate in the artistic and cultural spheres. Digitization allows for the reproduction of images of paintings, sculptures, and historical documents with surprising fidelity, democratizing access to art and bringing it closer to millions of people who would be unable to view it physically. However, this advantage raises questions about the value and essence of the original work.

The authenticity of a work is not limited solely to its visual appearance. It also involves elements such as texture, materials, the technique used by the artist, and, above all, the sensory experience of viewing it in a physical space. An oil painting, for example, conveys nuances that a digital screen can hardly replicate, such as the relief of brushstrokes or the interaction of light with the paint.

On the other hand, digitization does not necessarily destroy authenticity; rather, it offers a new way of experiencing art. By reproducing it in digital format, the work acquires another dimension: it can be disseminated, reinterpreted, and preserved in a technological environment. This type of "digital authenticity" opens up creative avenues, such as NFTs or immersive experiences, which do not seek to replace the physical work, but rather to expand it.

In conclusion, a work does not lose its authenticity by being digitized; rather, different levels of authenticity are generated. The original retains its unique and unrepeatable value, while the digital version functions as a tool for cultural access, preservation, and reinterpretation.
Latamarte