Computer-generated imagery

Definition

Computer-generated imagery (CGI) refers to the creation of still or animated visual content using computer software. This technology revolutionized the visual aspect of media, particularly in music videos, allowing artists to create imaginative and surreal visuals that enhanced their storytelling and overall aesthetic.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. CGI began to emerge as a significant element in music videos during the 1980s, coinciding with the rise of MTV and the demand for visually captivating content.
2. Music videos that utilized CGI often featured elaborate special effects, which could enhance the narrative of the song and create a unique atmosphere.
3. Some iconic music videos, like 'Sledgehammer' by Peter Gabriel, showcased groundbreaking CGI techniques that set new standards for visual storytelling in music.
4. CGI allows for the blending of real-life footage with fantastical elements, creating visually stunning sequences that were previously impossible to achieve.
5. The evolution of CGI continues to influence not only music videos but also film and video game industries, as artists push the boundaries of creativity and technology.

Review Questions

• How did computer-generated imagery change the landscape of music videos during the rise of MTV?
  • Computer-generated imagery transformed music videos by providing artists with new tools to create visually engaging narratives. During the rise of MTV, artists started utilizing CGI to enhance their storytelling and aesthetics, allowing them to push creative boundaries. This shift made music videos not just promotional tools but also standalone art forms that captured audiences' imaginations.
• Discuss the impact of iconic CGI music videos on popular culture in the 1980s and 1990s.
  • Iconic CGI music videos played a crucial role in shaping popular culture during the 1980s and 1990s by establishing new visual standards for storytelling in music. Videos like Peter Gabriel's 'Sledgehammer' showcased innovative animation and special effects that captivated audiences. This not only influenced future music video production but also set trends in visual artistry across various media platforms.
• Evaluate the role of CGI in modern music videos compared to its initial use during the early years of MTV.
  • The role of CGI in modern music videos has evolved significantly compared to its initial use during MTV's early years. Initially, CGI was groundbreaking and limited, creating simple yet impactful visuals. Now, it is an essential component that allows for intricate designs, seamless blending of live-action with animated elements, and innovative storytelling. This progression reflects advancements in technology and changing audience expectations, making CGI a crucial aspect of contemporary visual artistry in music.

Related terms

Visual Effects: Techniques used to create imagery that cannot be captured during live-action shooting, enhancing the visual experience in films and videos.

Animation: The process of creating motion and shape change illusion through a rapid display of a sequence of static images that minimally differ from each other.

Digital Art: Artworks created or presented in digital form, encompassing a range of artistic expressions and techniques facilitated by computer technology.