Computergraphik, Computerkunst1971

Computer art, first conceived twenty years ago, is undergoing rapid development; exhibitions are being organized from time to time in all major countries, and increasing interest in it is being shown by the press and television. This book offers an elementary introduction to its methods and problems, particularly those of computer graphics. It is the first book to give a comprehensive survey of the subject and its brief history, and, while written in a way fully intelligible to the interested layman, contains a great deal of technical information. The author first outlines the basic process of computer programming as a background for the non-specialist reader, and indicates the different uses of digital and analogue computers. He then goes on to describe in some detail the way computers can be programmed to produce works of graphic art, and lists the various methods of output for the completed works. From the technical problems, the author turns to relations between traditional aesthetics and the criteria by which these revolutionary works must be jugded and appreciated. The main emphasis is on graphics, but computer sculpture, music, ballet, drama and poetry are also discussed. He refers to the result sand experiments carried out in many countries with special reference to computer artists working in the USA, Great Britain and Germany. Computer art has opened up a new world, and this is a unique guidebook to a territory which is still unfamiliar to most, but which will become common ground to art lovers of future generations.