In B.J Jones’s article “Computer Graphics: Effects of Origins”, she talks about the new development of technology and its effects to art and media. She thinks that, “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” (21). Her primary thesis is, “New users bring additional assumptions and considerations of form, content, material, technique, meaning and purpose. However, some traces of the origins and practices remain in these forms, which consequently contribute to both cultural maintenance and change” (21).

Jones gives three historical examples of the development of computer graphic technology. In the section of “Recent and Contemporary Computer Graphics”, she indicates, “In the face of emphasis on context by some contemporary art theorists, most artistic uses of the computer remain separate from practical, scientific or technical uses” (26). She also mentions computer technology has affected our daily life in advertising, entertainment, publishing, telecommunications, business, finance and education. The author uses John O’Niell as an example of computer graphics and video game, which is “the work of John O’Niell offers an interesting example of the interaction of theory and practice from the art world with the origins and practices of early technical/scientific graphics” (26). In addition to video game, the entertainment such as film production and advertising relies heavily on the appeal of technical special effects made possible by earlier scientific or technical development.

The new technology especially computer graphics can create new visual effects to audiences and give them a new perspective to view arts. The Ford Alumni Center is a great example to Jones’s conclusion, “In light of this discussion, I leave the reader to consider the relationship of possible and probable uses of computer graphic applications, including visual reality, in terms of origins and practices” (29). The Ford Alumni Center is a dynamic building that welcomes all visitors and immerses them in the pioneering spirit that defines the University of Oregon, providing equal inspiration and information. The inside designs of the building are fully interactive for visitors to actively understanding and experience the culture of the University of Oregon.

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

University of Oregon Ford Alumni Center (short demo). http://vimeo.com/41886273