Panel Statement

Increasingly the use of computer graphics technology in the world raises questions about its effectiveness as a cross-cultural means of expression and communication. This paper discusses the effect of culture on cognition, and how this may affect the way artists and designers from different cultural backgrounds perceive and use computers in their work. The complexity of the use of pictorial codes in different cultural contexts is highlighted, leading to a discussion on the existence of a universal pattern of communication based on iconic representations. The extent to which cultural differences may influence computer graphics’ aesthetics is examined, and examples of Brazilian Computer Graphics works will be presented. It is argued that, in spite of a trend of continuous internationalisation of computer graphics softwares and equipments, culture still plays a fundamental role as it affects computer graphics’ artistic approach, methodology and results.

• Rejane Spitz, Pontificia Universidade Catolica de Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Full text [PDF] p. 55-58  (different title)