cubica

cubica is an example of a rare type of work, namely a completely 
abstract three-dimensional computer animation. The application 
programmed by m.ash is based on the control system of the popular 
computer game Snake. The running program was filmed on video in 
realtime during a live session, and the final product was left 
unedited. The basic formal structure is a product of the dichotomies 
of algorithmic automation versus manual manipulation, and randomness 
(created by means of a random event generator) versus set action. 

At the very beginning, a small white pixel is visible on a black 
background. It begins to move orthogonally, describing a square on the 
screen. As the right angles increase in number, they expand into the 
third dimension and begin to form cubes. The cubes then join in chains 
apparently searching without pause for a way out of a larger invisible 
cube which defines the borders of their digital universe.

While this is happening, the pulses of Chris Janka's technoid 
soundtrack influence the snake's direction. As is the case with many 
computer games, Cubica permits its player to choose the point-of-view, 
such as from the outside then switching suddenly from a subjective 
point-of-view at the head of one of the many snakes, racing through 
a world of cubes with neither horizon nor point of reference indicating 
size. This work, based on the ideal form of a square or cube, provides 
a fascinating scene for everyone who can appreciate formal precision 
and perfection. 

(Norbert Pfaffenbichler)