ARTEFACT 1 - THE IDEA

For my artefacts I have decided to find out what cues are use to differentiate the real world to the virtual world. The physical nature of the screen is strictly 2dimensional however the real world we live in is 3dimensional having height, width and depth. The challenge is to portray a 3dimensional world on a two dimensional screen surface and have it look believable.

In order to achieve this, we need to understand the visual components of space. Therefore during the series of my artefacts I shall explore the four basic types of space.

1. Deep Space
2. Flat Space
3. Limited Space
4. Ambiguous Space

For this first artefact I will analyse one visual element of art and design , and how it contributes in the formation of deep space which therefore then influence’s us on how one might perceive space. For this artefact I shall concentrate on lines as it is an assisting factor in the formation of depth cues.

“Lines is a means of communication rather than a natural phenomenon, a device we use to describe what we see, a means by which we convey our reactions both reality and concept and an element with which we express our thoughts and feelings” ( P7 Visual elements)

My aim is to understand the visual elements of space, which in return will help me understand the visual components of space and the role they play in determining the perception of space such as artificial depth cues can be used to differentiate a 3D environment rendered image in comparison to a ‘real’ environment.

In the book, Visual Elements of Art and Design, Frederick Palmer suggests that often a visual design such as a line can evoke different interpretations and reactions to a viewer. He says that;

Vertical lines can indicate strength or perhaps growth.

Horizontal lines can indicate calmness and rest.

Curves portray smoothness

Diagonals suggest movement.

Zigzag and other articulated lines give out a feeling of agitation.

Therefore I intend to create a questionnaire of images that reflect the 5 styles of representing lines and depth cues and therefore see whether those images will reflect on Palmer’s analysis on lines and what they can indicate. My objective is to ask members of my focus group to state what each image indicates to them, from the selected answers I provide them. Some questions will have no options and thus they shall have to answer from personal opinion.

From my questionnaire I am expecting to find out the most common style of line and how each line styles affect their perception of space and why. This will lead me to my next artefact. I am not expecting a common occurring answer or pattern.