The Art Of Software: Why we should view software as an artwork

Nurul Helda
GITS Apps Insight
Published in
4 min readJun 5, 2023
Photo by Microsoft 365 on Unsplash

Software is frequently viewed as merely a practical tool for achieving particular objectives. However, if we examine it more closely, we will discover that software is in fact an intriguing work of art that is distinct in its own right. We will discuss the significance of considering software as an art form that creates immersive experiences, conveys ideas, and elicits emotions in users in this article.

1. Aesthetics in Software

With enchanting user interfaces, pleasing color schemes, and harmonious designs, software can be visually unique and enticing. Through coding styles, approaches to solving problems, and algorithms, developers demonstrate their creativity. For instance, Adobe Photoshop creates a user experience that is visually stunning by combining sophisticated image processing algorithms with user-friendly interfaces and designs that are pleasing to the eye.

2. Software Development as a Creative Process

Software developers create captivating software by combining imagination and expertise. With effective algorithms, they investigate, experiment, and iterate to resolve complex issues. In their creations, they combine aesthetics with functionality, much like artists do. Their tools for expressing ideas and improving software performance are programming languages. Developers use code to create one-of-a-kind and exceptional works, similar to artists who use colors and brush strokes.

3. The Influence of Software on Culture

Programming, similar to craftsmanship, significantly impacts human culture. Communication, self-expression, and content sharing are revolutionized by photo editing apps and social media platforms. Apps like Adobe Lightroom and VSCO enable creative image manipulation, and social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter make it simple to share thoughts, images, and videos. Spotify, Netflix, and YouTube are streaming services that make it easy to access a wide range of content. In outline, programming is an amazing asset for self-articulation, changing how we impart and consume media.

4. Software as a Creative Medium

Through applications like Autodesk Sketchbook and Adobe Illustrator, software lets creatives show off their ideas. Games on computers like “The Legend of Zelda: Players are captivated by the immersive visuals, engaging gameplay, and compelling narratives of “Red Dead Redemption 2” and “Breath of the Wild.” These games are regarded as exceptional works of art because they provide memorable experiences with striking visuals, beautiful music, and profound narratives.

5. Appreciating Design Details and Human Creativity

Software’s captivating design details and harmonious elements are made clear when it is viewed as an art form. Developers put in time and effort to create user-pleasing experiences that are coherent and visually appealing. Perceiving programming as craftsmanship praises the commitment of engineers who endeavor to have significant effects on our lives through useful yet stylishly satisfying plans. We acknowledge their distinctive artworks and the value they bring by acknowledging their efforts.

Now, we will discuss more specific examples, case studies, and perspectives from other viewpoints that can help understand “The Art of Software.”

1. Specific Example: The game “Flappy Bird” serves as a case study for the idea that software can be considered art. The game was a hit with players despite its straightforward design and received international media attention. Dong Nguyen, the game’s developer, combined challenging and addictive gameplay with minimalist graphics. Despite being initially viewed as a straightforward and insignificant game, its popularity demonstrates software’s artistic potential and allure.

2. Case Study: Software in the Film Industry Software plays a crucial role in the film industry’s production process. For instance, delivering programming like Autodesk Maya is utilized to make special visualizations and energized characters in Hollywood movies, for example, “Symbol” and “The Ruler of the Rings.” This case study demonstrates that software functions not only as a useful tool but also as a creative medium that enables filmmakers to create exceptional works.

3. Alternative Perspective: Psychological Perspective: Examining software from a psychological point of view can shed light on the reasons why software can be compared to art. Analysts could examine how programming can impact feelings, trigger creative mind, or make significant encounters for clients. They might show how software interactions can affect someone’s emotional and psychological well-being by presenting research on the use of software in therapy or treatment.

Conclusion:

Software is a fine art that impacts our regular routines. Software developers incorporate artistic elements into their creations to create immersive and inspiring experiences. When software is viewed as an art form, new ideas and the place that art plays in the digital world can be explored. By doing so, we can appreciate human creativity and innovation in digital form while also making software usage more beautiful and diverse.

--

--