Operational utilization of photographic images based on interactive data visualization, clouds In memory

No Thumbnail Available

URL

Journal Title

Journal ISSN

Volume Title

School of Arts, Design and Architecture | Master's thesis
Location:

Date

2023

Department

Major/Subject

Mcode

Degree programme

Taiteen ja median maisteriohjelma

Language

en

Pages

76

Series

Abstract

Data-driven technologies, especially artificial intelligence, have emerged as a creative factor in visual arts in this technologically advanced era. This thesis critiques the current trend among the public of focusing mainly on the novelty of technological outputs, which produce innovative images beyond human imagination. The author argues for a deeper examination of the processes behind these creations, suggesting that understanding these processes is critical to uncovering true creativity. The thesis advocates delving beyond surface-level innovation to explore the deeper processes underpinning creative visual expression in art. To do that, it introduces the concept of "operational images," coined by video artist Harun Farocki. It transcends the traditional focus on visual aesthetics to underscore the functional and computational attributes of images. The study also delves into the dynamic roles these images play in both art and media. This approach serves as a reinterpreted framework to investigate the diverse characteristics and manifestations of operational images. Based on the framework of "operational images", the thesis presents a systematic analysis of artworks related to clouds, which is the realm of imagination, illustrating how the imaginary scene can be creatively observed. The author also introduces a web-based data visualization project centered on personally captured and archived cloud photographs, as the case of the application of operational images as a creative process. The thesis discusses the project's outcomes and potential areas for improvement, aiming to demonstrate how creative processes can emerge in the artistic domain beyond the superficial appeal of data-driven visuals. Ultimately, the thesis seeks to uncover how deeper creative processes manifest within the narrative of data-based artworks, offering a novel approach to understanding creativity in the technology age.

Description

Supervisor

Reunanen, Markku

Thesis advisor

Parikka, Jussi
Niinimäki, Matti

Keywords

operational images, photographic metadata, data-driven, artificial intelligence, data visualization, clouds

Other note

Citation