sanatason

Sanatason is a neologism that appears in some contemporary art and design discussions to describe a proposed mode of artistic practice that blends traditional craftsmanship with computational generation and interactive reception. It is not a formal movement with a codified canon, and it has limited coverage in major art criticism.

Etymology and usage: The term seems to fuse “sanat” (art) with the Turkish “son” (end, last) or with concepts of state or phase, but there is no universally accepted etymology. It has circulated primarily in online forums, zines, and experimental art collectives since the late 2010s, rather than in academic or mainstream art discourse.

Concept: In its current usage, sanatason describes works, processes, or curatorial approaches in which data streams, sensors, and generative algorithms influence form, material, and presentation. Projects may involve interactive installations, responsive sculpture, or AI-assisted design, aiming to dissolve the line between maker, artwork, and viewer.

Reception and examples: Because sanatason lacks formal criteria, there are no canonical examples. Critics sometimes employ the term as a heuristic to discuss trends toward integration of craft and digital systems. Some commentators see it as a useful shorthand for a broader shift, while others warn it risks being vaguer than necessary.

Relation to other terms: Sanatason overlaps with discussions of new media art, interactive art, generative art, and smart material sculpture. It remains a peripheral label rather than a defined category, contingent on evolving practice and dialogue within the art world.