» Artifact #6: Technology AAD250

Artifact #6: Technology

Objective:

Learn about the history of computer graphics
Examine the role of technology as a force for cultural maintenance and change
Discuss the validity of art created with the aid of machines

Artifact #6:

Graphic Design and EDM

In the article Computer Graphics: Effects of Origins by Beverly J. Jones the articles main thesis is regarding how technology and art have simultaneously evolved and developed at the same time. The thesis also goes further to say how both technology and art have influenced each other since the early 1940s. One of the historical examples that Jones provides as an illustration for her thesis is the example of Ben Lapofsky and Herbert Franke. These two individuals were the first to develop graphic images. “In the 1940s analogue computers were used to generate the earliest computer graphics and display them on oscilloscopes (Jones 22).” With new technology allowing the depiction of graphic images there was a whole new area or way for artists to create appealing art. That is art on a computer screen. No longer did artist have to use a canvas or paper to create art but now they could create it on a digital screen. Today, graphic design is a huge area of art and there are many people who create art through this outlet. Lapofsky and Franke clearly were pioneers in the field digital art, which is very popular today. Their invention clearly gives a concrete example of Jones’ thesis and the relationship between art and technology. Jones’ thesis can also be seen today through electronic music. Electronic music is also called EDM. “EDM is short for electronic dance music, which could conceivably describe any music with a beat made on a machine. But in practice it describes something more specific (Yenigun).” Electronic music is very popular today and it can be seen as an art form. These electronic artists use mix boards, synthesizers, keypads, and electronic mixing software to create music. All of these tools are new technological advances that have made this new art form possible. Without the technology the electronic music would not be possible. With the creation of electronic music there have been many new websites and programs created for artist to create, mix, and share new music. The most popular ones are Sound-cloud, and Beat Port. These are forums where the electronic community at large shares their art digitally. As a college student that has a moderate to severe social life; I commonly hear electronic music at parties. It is upbeat, new, and a different genre of music that younger generations enjoy. I would compare electronic music as our generation rock and roll.

Jones, B. J. (1990). Computer Graphics: Effects of Origins. LEONARDO: Digital Image –Digital Cinema Supplemental Issue, pp. 21-30.

Yenigun, Sami. (2012). Dance Music Looks Beyond EDM and Hopes the Crowd Will Follow. The Record: Music News From NPR. March 1. Web.

Reflection:

The objectives for this section on technology were about the history of computer graphic technology, technologies impact on our culture, and validity of art that is created with technology or machines. This artifact clearly highlights these three objectives and is why it is represented in my portfolio. First, the artifact refers to Ben Lapofsky and Herbert Franke and credits them with the invention of computer graphics and use Jones’ article as a reference.

Secondly, the second half of the artifact goes into the new music genre of EDM and its creation. The music EDM is considered by some as an art form but it is uniquely created using machines. This artifact shows that technology can cause cultural change. This example of EDM in the artifact also shows that there is some validity when it comes to art created with the help of machines. With EDM there are tons of fans and that type of music is becoming even more popular, clearly there is a following for art that has the help from machines.

For this section I would have liked to learn more about new current types of art use technology and machines to help create it. Due to the nature of technology always changing and becoming outdated, I think some recent articles about a new unique way to create art with technology would be very beneficial. Maybe something to do with 3D printing.