I believe that the primary thesis of the Computer Graphics: Effects of Origins by Beverly Jones is that in the artistic form, technology has changed the world and have continual influence over their evolution in the form of art and social evolution combined. “New forms of art and technology are frequently cast in the mode of old forms just as other aspects of material and symbolic culture have been” (Jones 21). In such a short period of time, technology has improved so vastly and is continuing to do so in an everlasting faster pace. Jones explains this change through the visual effects of computer graphics.

One of the three historical examples Jones provides to help support her thesis is the use of electricity and computers, in which she states that during their introductions, no one thought that they had any potential or value in our lives. “These examples express the tendency to set limits of ‘the possible’ based on previous experience, knowledge, and conceptual frames” (Jones 21). This was highlighted through the sales of Mercedes Benz cars as well, as they were projected very low numbers due to the lack of high quality drivers present at that time. She claims, “those who originate and use new forms of art and technology embed their assumptions in the new symbolic and material forms” (Jones 21). These assumptions create new patterns that can be observed in many different ways.

A compelling and accurate illustration of Jones’ thesis at work in today’s culture can be observed through the visual effects in movies. Not only does the improvement of technology create more appealing graphics for the viewer to enjoy, they also make animated scenes appear more realistic, making it possible to “film” an impossible situation. Because of this, technology fuels new forms of creativity and inspiration to portray movies in a different light to society. We can see the effects of technology though animated films, from children movies such as The Incredibles and Frozen, to Transformers and many other blockbuster hits. One of the movie companies, Pixar, is an excellent example of computer graphics because it exemplifies its growth and success from the adaptation of older modes of art and technology. Due to the effects of digital art and computer graphics, we have the most breathtaking and amazing movies of the generation.

An article that I found that relates to this reading is from CNN Money, where it describes the type of futuristic technology from Star Trek that we use today, as a tribute to the passing away of Leonard Nimoy, the actor that had played Spock in this legendary movie. From GPS, to automatic doors, seeing how we take today’s form of technology for granted while society 20-30 years ago were dreaming of such technology shows the beauty behind the progression of our human race. The art of technology has advanced at such a high level in present times, and it is only progressing at a faster rate as our time continues. I am looking forward to seeing what the future holds for us, and hopes that the art of technology evolves to become even more beautiful.

 

Bibliography:

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

Goldman, D., & Pallotta, F. (2015, February 27). Star Trek Technology that we use today. Retrieved March 1, 2015, from http://money.cnn.com/gallery/technology/2015/02/27/leonard-nimoy-dead-spock-star-trek/3.html