The Five Principles of New Media
Roger Gant IV
1. Numerical Representation
I think this first principle is the most important, because it states that all new media must be able to be represented in numerical form, which most often is in the form of code. Because of this, there is an almost infinite amount of permutations and computations that can take place and therefore change the nature of the artwork.
2. Modularity
This principle talks about how new media is usually made up out of a bunch of distinct, unique parts. These parts can be assembled into a larger body of work but they still maintain their independence. Manovich cites the Internet as a great example of the modularity of new media, as the Internet is billions of tiny pieces of data, linked together in a web of possibility.
3. Automation
Automation refers to the capabilities of a computer to perform processes that we as humans could not do in a reasonable amount of time. This employs algorithms that are used as filters, noise reduction, effects, and even the capability to turn 2D objects into 3D objects.
4. Variability
A new media object can be transformed into potentially infinite different renderings. Because new media is most basically numerical, a computer can create many different versions of an original work in virtually no time at all. This allows for greater variability in structure, color, or any other aspect of the object.
5. Transcoding
A new media object can be displayed in many different formats, be it digital or even analogue. This is the process of transcoding. Manovich also refers to transcoding as the interface between human and machine, society and artist. Because of the transcoding capabilities of new media, the possibilities resulting from any one singular work are tremendous.
Monday, September 26, 2011
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
Transformations
When trying to decide what object made many transformations, I thought of those things in my life that mean the most and fit into the many aspects of my daily life. I thought of my cat, a feline whose personality definitely transforms about 10 times a day. I also thought of my cell phone, which using today’s technology transforms from a communication device to a mini computer right in my pocket. Finally, I settled on something that I probably use more than anything else; this laptop. It is a diverse object that takes on a different meaning with every different task I make it perform. So, without further ado…
…A list:
Open, closed, backlit, sleeping, charging, charging my phone, playing music, plugged into speakers, mixing music, editing photos, taking photos, creating music, playing movies, surfing the web, taking notes, procrastination, downloading music, research, writing, web-chatting/communication, self-expression with the physical look, in a backpack, syncing my entire life onto a single device, shopping, paying bills, a cat bed, with a case, without a case, a gaming device, on my bed, on a desk, in a classroom, on my lap, at a party, a schedule, a clock, a reading light.
Obviously, my macbook is a very diverse device. Lets see some pictures
Literally, a program to mix music. Textually, a way to make other peoples music relevant to me. Intertextually, I become a DJ at a party who controls the mood of the crowd. Mythically, God is a DJ.
Literally, a warm cat perch. Textually, Possession is now in the feline's paws. Intertextually, anything warm is a good cat bed, whether it be $1000 or $1. Mythically, its his favorite spot.
Literally, the laptop is in my bag. Textually, its in transport mode. Intertextually, it is about to accompany me to another place. Mythically, it is my best friend in class once I take it out of transport mode.
Literally, it is almost closed. Textually, it means there are actions taking place that do not require my attention but do need power. Intertextually, it means I am downloading something while I sleep.
Literally, many devices are plugged in. Textually, it is now a charging hub for mobile devices, and a playback device for music. Intertextually, it is both a communication and entertainment device. Mythically, this is traditionally how I charge my phone and play music.
…A list:
Open, closed, backlit, sleeping, charging, charging my phone, playing music, plugged into speakers, mixing music, editing photos, taking photos, creating music, playing movies, surfing the web, taking notes, procrastination, downloading music, research, writing, web-chatting/communication, self-expression with the physical look, in a backpack, syncing my entire life onto a single device, shopping, paying bills, a cat bed, with a case, without a case, a gaming device, on my bed, on a desk, in a classroom, on my lap, at a party, a schedule, a clock, a reading light.
Obviously, my macbook is a very diverse device. Lets see some pictures
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