At this point, the blog is coming along quite nicely. We have assembled an array of information that connects the disciplines of scientific visualization and visual development for animation. We also touched upon the aesthetics of scientific visualization, and why humans yearn to depict the cosmos. At this stage, I would like to re-address are intentions as researchers - touching upon the points we established when the blog began. As our research accumulates, these focus points will solidify and become the basis for final web site, which will discuss the interrelationship of art and science in regards to animation.
Our research can now be divided into four main areas. Below I will discuss those areas of interest.
FOCUS POINTS:
1. Aesthetics and Science:
Is there a subconscious connection between scientific data and the world of art? How do aesthetics impact visual data?
We try to answer these questions by pondering the beauty of snowflake. Our research shows how snowflakes develop and how their structure influence art and design. Most importantly, we find snow crystals to be naturally appealing. Does our attraction towards snow crystals influence our determination to study them?
2. Animation and Science Education:
How does animation impact education in the sciences?
One way to attract a child to science is through the use of aesthetics. Software can be used to stylize scientific data and make it more appealing to children and adults. One could tell the story of the snow crystal through animation. In its descent to earth, we could watch a snow crystal form in real time, and witness how the stresses in the water molecules transform into a series of interconnected open hexagons.
3. The Relationship Between Software tools and Scientific Visualization:
How does the usability of software impact scientific visualization? Can the democratizing of animation (i.e. anyone can animate with software tools) contribute misinformation?
Without the aid of software, the snowflake's descent would be a difficult story to tell. Without a tool such as Adobe Illustrator, I would have to draw the snow crystal with a compass and ruler to ensure that I was representing the crystalline structure properly. Without After Effects and Flash, I would have to painstakingly create the morphing crystal through hundreds of drawings. Fortunately, with the existence of such tools, our ability to visualize science has been made much easier. Houdini is an excellent example; we can now program L-systems in minutes. But usability also allows for misinformation. The Creation Museum in Ohio is an excellent example (http://www.creationmuseum.org). State of the art animation and visual displays convey information, from a religious point of view, which go against general scientific principles.
4. Scientific Visualization, Conceptual Design and Speculative Biology:
How can scientific visualization benefit the entertainment industry and animation in general?
Just as science can be made more appealing through artistry and stylization, conceptual design can be made more appealing through science. Many artists, such Alex Ries and Wayne Barlowe, are use science to make their creations seem real. This has created a new genre of art (or science) called Speculative Biology. Speculative Biology will have a growing impact on the entertainment industry as conceptual designers strive to make their imaginary creations as real as possible.
Any comments?
- joe
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