The Art of Video Games

I'm mega tired but before I go to bed I have to share this - I discovered earlier that next year the Smithsonian American Art Museum is holding a six month exhibition called The Art of video Games, which will "explore the 40-year evolution of video games as an artistic medium, with a focus on striking visual effects, the creative use of new technologies, and the most influential artists and designers. I would love a big scale exhibition like this in England! 


I'm a bit of a gaming nerd and beautiful games such as Okami really inspire me (which I'm happy to see has been put in the exhibition.) When I was younger I spent lots of time drawing Pokémon cartoons as well as detailed drawings of them, and there are still tons of fan art ideas I'd like to try out for several different games.


Here's the link to the exhibition details: http://www.artofvideogames.org/

As I was watching the video on that website, a game called Shadow of the Colossus took my interest. Being a young girl at the time who already had a Gamecube and Game Boy and who's mother disliked video games anyway, I really don't know much about PS2 games. But the emotion described in the discussion of this game sounded mesmerizing and checking out some artwork and videos didn't disappoint. It really is a stunning game, hopefully I will be able to get my hands on it one day.  


The graphic style of the game is totally unique, with the whole world oozing a lonely atmosphere and the contrast of light and dark emphasizing his choice between good and evil. Even the menacing characters show innocence with their bright eyes as the hero, Wander, tries to kill them.  I was surprised to find out how popular the game was yet how little fan art seemed to be around,  but being someone who's interested in gaming, concept art and fantasy creatures, this is definitely something I want to explore further.