Phygital Art: taxonomy and analysis of hybrid dimensions in contemporary aesthetic experience

Résumé

This article examines the integration of physical and digital elements in contemporary artistic expression, introducing the term phygital art, derived from the concept of phygital. This term describes hybrid experiences that combine tangible and virtual components. Phygital art represents a collaborative fusion between the physical (phy-) and digital (-gital), wherein both components mutually influence one another, enabling new forms of artistic expression and audience engagement.
To analyze these dynamics, a taxonomy is proposed, comprising six main categories: physical-digital integration, audience engagement, interactivity, bodily involvement, sensory experience, and conceptual depth. This framework provides a comprehensive evaluation of the diverse facets of the phygital experience, grounded in theories from authors such as Manovich, Grau, Dewey, and Veiga, among others.
To test the robustness and validity of this taxonomy, it was applied to three representative works: Rain Room, The Treachery of Sanctuary, and Unnumbered Sparks. These works were analyzed comparatively, highlighting their unique positions within the phygital spectrum.
The application of this taxonomic model proved effective in identifying the balance between physical and digital components and assessing audience involvement on multiple levels. A classification table and radar chart provide a clear visualization of each work’s position, illustrating their varied approaches. The flexibility of this taxonomy establishes it as a valuable tool for analyzing and understanding phygital art, supporting innovation and interactivity in a context where the tangible and virtual increasingly converge in complex and meaningful ways.