Essay Yoichiro Kawaguchi, 1990
High Definition Computer Graphics
High definition technology came as the newest of the many tools employed to keep viewers fascinated with the dynamism and irrestible energy of cumputer images. Compare, for instance, the time for subtitles in high definition: the quality is six time better than one NTSC will ever have. The point where computer graphics and high definition technology converge is characterized by the quality that graphic images can achieve with the scanning capacity of NTSC 525. When we are able to physically sense the cool drops of a fresh juice trickling down the scanning lines of a high definition screen, then for the first time we will sense the dense substantially of breathing. It is this capacity to capture details of very delicate forms and this power to minutely represent extremely complex objects that allows high definition computer graphics to express such substantially.
To my mind, high definition is especially fit to represent the viscous sphere of density – a “meta-ball”. With this technology, it will be possible to see images that common technologies are unable to show, such as the appearence and broadening of an increasingly dense space around a curved surface. With this kind of images, new and interesting ideas can be found, both for still and moving images. The absence of barriers when switching from motion to static image and viceversa will allow a continuous renewal of personal inspiration.
Since high definition screens double the scanning capacity of current Technologies, it is undoubtedly the “Messiah” that will lead video images a step ahead. These images fit very nicely in my own work, where i try to illustrate life and growth, that is, the horizon of original images that are created in span of life. Shapes, colours, the moviment seen in the flora and fauna are a continuous source of ideas for my work. The creation of earth and the historic accumulation of time have set in motion fascinating shapes and patterns, rules and principles were formed. From the archeological standpoint, even during the most primitive evolution process, every form of life in the natural world have their characteristic movement. Sometimes in a lively, humoristic, voluptous, even carnal manner each rhythm or wave was picked up in the past and brought to the future. Computer graphics in the only art form that can mathematically capture nature’s countless rules. Mainly in three-dimensional works with very soft motion, high definition will enable to express even the most subtle vibrations inherent to motion.
Thus, when the art of shaping blends scientific knownledge and personal intuition with a necessarily boundless freedom, a new invisible life gains streght and starts breathing.
8th Fotoptica Internacional Video Festival. 09 a 15 de Novembro de 1990. p. 87.