Reading 5 - Truc Le

In the article On Compression, Cory Arcangel explained the way the Discrete Cosine Transform (DCT) technique works in JPEG pictures. According to Arcangel, DCT is a mathematical method which is used to compress images. By taking out unimportant coefficients of an image’s input values, the DCT technique helps lessen both the image’s file size and its quality. However, the human eyes usually do not recognize the quality reduction so the DCT technique is widely applied (2007-2008).

The purpose of the DCT technique is clearly to take up less computer space in saving or sending images. However, I find it more interesting in the way the technique works. In my opinion, the DCT method can accomplish its goal because it knows how to deceive the human eyes in the least obvious way (by disregarding an image’s minimal details through complicated math functions.) Basically, the DCT technique simplifies the image’s input values and displays only its key components.

The DCT’s concept of doing complicated calculations backstage in order to show the audience a simplified version of the image really relates to me. I feel connected to it because simplifying tricky details and making them appear simple to people is now my goal in programming. To be more specific, this is my story: when I first started to learn about coding and working with Processing, I used to feel like I have to incorporate as many computer functions in my project as possible. At that time, I evaluated my Processing project based on its details and complexity. However, as I learn more about coding and see complex art works by GLI.TC/H, I change my goal in programming. For example, I felt really uncomfortable and anxious when I look at chaotic works of GLI.TC/H. Their pieces made me rethink of myself as an artist: I want to make my art appears user-friendly to people, not confusing them. The old “must make things appear complicated” way of thinking in me is gradually replaced by “the simpler things looks, the better.” Now, although I may write long and confusing computer codes, I try to make my program look neat and easy to understand when people hit the “Play” button. That is how I relate to the DCT technique: doing complicated works in the back so as to make the outcome looks simpler.