Goals

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

Art, Games, and Technology

This reading, by Beverly Jones, “Computer Graphics: Effects of Origins” Jones thesis is “Electronic and photonic art forms have been and will continue to be influenced by their origins and practices…Old cultural patterns do not die. They may fade or become more evident, that is, they may be deemphasized or more evident.” (Jones 51).  This thesis shows the historical advances of our technology. These practices will be influenced by the culture that we live in.

One of the historical examples that exemplify this thesis is found on page 25, in which Jones writes “ The primary form of computer imagery in the early years was the two-dimensional screen imagery consisted of transparent wire-frame images. With increases in memory space and speed, and the construction of hidden line algorithms, illusory three-dimensional images began to appear on computer screens. In the mid and late 1970s further increases in speed and memory led to raster graphics and then to displays of three-dimensional colored, shaded and textured images on computer screens.” This is reflective of the age of which we currently live in. This two dimensional imagery has not died, but also is an option to the 3D technology that we have available.

Today’s culture is centered around all kinds of electronic technology. At every turn, you see an individual with an iPhone or some sort of device that is the norm for our culture. Many individuals are consumed by their phones and other devices. These graphics and user interface are reflective of certain origins that have created a way for people to connect. The telephone was created for people to stay in touch with one another. This was a way of communication that was quick and efficient. Now, our culture has taken this to the next step. With Facetime and apps like Skype, one can have a conversation with someone, like they would on the phone, but they are able to see the people that they are talking to. The 3D technology that we enjoy today is a result of the 2D technology that we have had in the past. These patterns do not fade, but are advanced upon and as time passes, are made better.

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

Reflection: We live in a time where there are new technological advances seemingly every week. It is a reflection of out with the old and in with the new.  However, the old objects that we are replacing are vital in creating these newer objects. “Computer Graphics: Effects of Origins” talks about the development of computer graphics. “The primary form of computer imagery in the early years was the two-dimensional screen imagery consisted of transparent wire-frame images. With increases in memory space and speed, and the construction of hidden line algorithms, illusory three-dimensional images began to appear on computer screens. In the mid and late 1970s further increases in speed and memory led to raster graphics and then to displays of three-dimensional colored, shaded and textured images on computer screens (25).” The culture of school has changed with the advancement of technology. This picture shows young students learning via laptop. However, even this may be outdated! There are some instances where schools, apparently ones with a lot of money, are utilizing
Ipads for their students to learn. This type of technology will continue to change the culture of how students learn. School has become more interactive and this is due in part to better computer technology.

There is a constant advancement of technology. Whether it is cell phones, tv, or computer graphics there is a push to make the next best thing. This is done through careful analysis of a prior product and looking to find things that will make that product even better. The validity of art is changing with the advancement of such computer graphics technology. Original works of art can be recreated digitally and altered to change the needs of the artist. This creates a problem of art validity for viewers.

Future:

I will use this information from this assignment and section as I see the advancement of technology before my eyes. While some products seem as if they are completely new, they are based of a prior idea and advancement of this technology. The culture will change with the technology. We are currently adapting to new forms of technology and will continue to do so.

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