Drawing as a Gateway to Computer-Human Integration
- Drawing as a Gateway to Computer Human Integration
In the process of creativity, digital technology offers new ways to translate and transform. The author presents his approach to drawing as a gateway to exploring these possibilities. His particular concern is with the notion of computer-human integration. He suggests that possibilities offered by such integration will enable forms of expression unique to this process to emerge. Two systems that the author has used to further his search are described. His reflections on how a particular system of computer-human integration might develop in the future are noted.
An Approach to Drawing
The pursuit of meaning through drawing is a process of embodiment, an unspoken dialogue between the self and the state that is to emerge. It is impossible for this state to be known by another. However, the attempt to externalize and objectify this state translates and transforms it, enabling its transference as others form their own dialogue with the resulting form. Such a process is dynamic and energizing, feeding the emergence of new insights to the self as well as forging tools and mechanisms that themselves become integrated into this continuing process. Digital technology offers new ways to translate and transform. This paper examines one such opportunity, in which the process of drawing is used as a gateway to the exploration of computer-human integration using ordinary, human movement within a pre-defined space. In particular, I attempt to allow an embrace of the nature of the technology rather than forcing metaphors from traditional drawing tools upon it.
I have been involved in the process of drawing from as early as I can remember (Figs 1 and 2). It is a behavior I have engaged in instinctively rather than analytically. This has left me with something of a dilemma: I have a strong feeling that digital technology offers possibilities for the artist that can be enlightening; but by its nature, it demands an algorithmic, predetermined input, in which all variables have been considered beforehand. My desire is to reconcile these two very diverse mindsets and to explore the possibilities that emerge. It seemed very appropriate, then, to use drawing as the process by which to explore computer-human integration and to search for ways to enable the technology to be used as an art medium.
One view of the drawing process is as a search for meaning—a conscious investigation of a space that results in transformation and the emergence of insight. Part of my art practice involves working with a model in what could be considered a traditional life drawing sense. When engaged in this process, one response to it is to make marks on paper. However, the making of marks is only one way to try to express the process of transformation that is occurring. Perhaps the energy that drives this transformation, that of contemplation and of physical movement within the environment, is of equal, if not greater, concern. It is by this movement and contemplation, or perhaps meditation, that one tries to work out what is taking place.
The Assimilation of Technology
A key factor in reaching this view has been the assimilation of digital technology. During the last few years, digital technology has become an integral part of my drawing practice. By allowing the technology to play a role, without imposing preconceived ideas about what it could or could not do or indeed about its nature, I have achieved surprisingly informative results. One device I have used is called a Softboard [1] (Fig. 3).
The Softboard
A whiteboard (4 × 3 ft) is connected to a computer. The whiteboard is similar in design to any conventional whiteboard, except that it has a laser matrix across its area. The system includes four color pens as well as small and large erasers. The laser matrix enables pen and position data to be transmitted to the computer. The program on the computer looks similar to a drawing application. There is a re-sizable window, which maps to the physical whiteboard. The resolution is high (approximately 4000 × 3000 points over the 4-×-3ft area). Any actions made at the physical whiteboard are immediately represented in this...
