The Computer as a Means of Artistic Expression

Ever since the early days of ENAIC, Memex, and Dynabook, computer technology has advanced in leaps and bounds. The average computer today is many times more powerful that its predecessors and can perform an ever-increasing list of tasks and functions. One such function is as a new means for artistic expression. The computer’s ability to combine the traditional artistic mediums of drawing, painting, film, sound, photography, and text allow for the creative synthesis of any of these artistic mediums to generate innovative new artworks. One such example of this synthesis is the use of drawing in combination with digital imaging and editing technology. An artist can sit down and draw a sketch or picture and then upload that picture to a computer using a scanner. The artist can then continue to work on the drawing by adding colors from an infinite selection, shadows, contrast, and many other artistic elements, having transformed the work from the physical to the digital realm. One place where artwork created through this process can be found is deviantART, an international online artist community where users can upload creative works to share on a global scale. This is just one of the many examples of how computers can be used to open up new and ever-expanding venues for artistic expression.