The History of Computer Art - From Early Programming to Digital Expression

A 46-minute conference talk from Copenhagen Developers Festival explores the fascinating evolution of computer art, tracing its journey from the psychedelic-influenced hacking culture of 1960s San Francisco to contemporary digital galleries. Explore how fine artists in the 1970s discovered computing as a creative medium and learn about the mathematical algorithms that became the digital equivalent of traditional artistic techniques. Journey through the rebellious 1980s demoscene movement, where amateur programmers transformed code into an expressive art form similar to street art. Discover how the internet has evolved into a global exhibition space where both finished works and source code are celebrated as art forms, including instances of algorithm printouts commanding high prices at auctions. Examine the artistic potential of mathematical algorithms, supported by striking visuals and elegant code examples, while gaining knowledge about frameworks and tools for creating digital art. Gain fresh perspectives on the age-old question "What is art?" through this visually rich presentation that bridges the gap between traditional artistic expression and computer programming.