The effects of computer technology on the quality of artworks done by students at MTSIFA of Makerere University.
Abstract
Computer, simply means an electronic device for storing and processing data, typically in binary
form. Examples of these in the school of art include laptops, desktops, smart phones, digital
cameras, these computers are currently even as I type this being used by these artists in one form
or the other.
Technology refers to the application of scientific knowledge for practical purposes, especially in
industry. Therefore, computer technology is the way in which computers are being applied into
daily life and being used for practical purposes. In the study of fine art, fine art being all the
visual and applicable art that is taught in the school of art (MTSIFA) these include sculpture,
illustration and print making, painting, textile design, photography, ceramics, drawing, black and
white, fashion, communication design, jewelry. I’m going to focus on animation as an industry,
in MTSIFA this is taught under the course unit print making and illustration.
Computer technology in the study of fine art in MTSIFA is rather present, it is there but the
problem is in how it is being used in the study of fine art. Students are required by the market in
the field to be possessing certain skills such as how to use applications such as blender auto desk
maya, procreate so as to be able to work in the animation market. These skills however are not
what artists get when they interact with computers in university. There is a big reason for artists
in today’s world to be able to create and have an online presence so as to have ways of making
their art to be known in society, this is also not a point of focus in learner’s interaction with
computers. This study aims at showing the effects of computer technology in the quality of art
produced specifically animation in MTSIFA.