The primary thesis of ”Computer Graphics: Effects of Origins” is that computer changes affect culture as well. "These changes are not simply technical effects. They contribute to maintenance and change of culturally historical context" (Jones 51). New digital forms are based on traditional forms. "An increasing number of contemporary theorists are stressing the importance of origins and practices in unmasking assumptions within current forms and practices" (Jones 51). Art and culture are only getting an ally in computer programmes. There is a "reliance on previous forms" and there are "evolving possibilities in harmony with larger cultural and historical patterns. There is a "scientific and artistic view of imagery and their evaluation. (Jones 51).
One of the historical examples Jones provides as an illustration of her thesis is the fact that arts and humanities assist scientists. "Engineers and technicians are directing the development of new technologies toward cultural goals before technological ones" (Jones 52). The MIT Media Lab is a result of integration of the three formerly separated media industries; "Negroponte's design for the MIT lab's logo displayed the intersection of three areas, broadcast and motion picture industry, print and publishing industry and the computer industry" (Jones 52). Education and communication as well as entertainment and advertising use computer graphics (Jones 52).
An illustration of Jones’ thesis at work in today's culture is the use of computer animation in movies and entertainment industry. One of the best examples is the movie "Ted"created by Seth MacFarlane, released in 2012.
Visual producer Jenny Fulle said: "We really focused on motion capture from his waist up–because he has a lot of mannerisms with his hands and he rocks back and forth and moves backwards and forwards and stuff like that. What we would also do is keep a high-definition camera on his face. That way we could also capture a visual representation of what he does with his eyebrows and when his eyes go wide and that sort of thing. We would then give that to the animators so they could just manually take that look and apply it to the bear" (Fulle).
There is much cooperation between artists and scientists. "Practical and professional communities of advertisement, entertainment, publishing, telecommunications, business, finance, education and medicine have joined the academic, scientific and artistic communities in using this medium" (Wikipedia).
References
Jones, B. J. (1990). Computer Graphics: Effects of Origins. LEONARDO: Digital Image – Digital Cinema Supplemental Issue, pp. 52.
Amidi, Amid. (2012). 'How Seth MacFarlane Created The Animation in "Ted", Cartoon Brew. Retrieved November 22nd, 2013, from http://www.cartoonbrew.com/feature-film/how-seth-macfarlane-created-the-animation-in-ted-65641.html
Computer animation (November 22nd 2013) http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Computer_animation
