What is specially appealing to me, is the further development of existing graphics programmes. With some fantasy it is possible to squeeze out interesting novel effects from standard software packages. Some of these effects may be used with simplified access by small custom made programmes. When developing these techniques however, practical application is to be considered.

In spite of the almost incredible issues offered by the more sophisticated 3-D-graphics programmes, I still consider the relatively low-cost "Mirage" package very suitable for artistic application. So, a large number of my works was done mostly or completely on this software. Even the non-program-ming-expert is enabled to write small programmes that can yield impressive effects.

In most of my works I tried to make use of effects proper to computer graphics, e. g.
- Neon colouring
- enhancement of existing shapes by colour shading
- multiplication of existing shapes and figures and
- manipulation of existing shapes and figures.

My present concern is linking these effects with the traditional methods of graphics. Above all, free drawing of figures and their computer graphics enhancement it allows the composition of living graphics, that are often in contrast to other, more static computer graphics. The viewer does not immediately become aware that he is looking at computer generated graphics. And this - to my opinion - is a chance to overcome the cliches from which computer graphics still suffer. (T. Wittmer)

Technical background:

All three graphics were produced on an IBM compatible AT computer with an additional TARGA graphic card, a graphics tablet and a co-processor. Output was produced on a matrix-PCR-camera. Software: Mirage, with additional custom programmes.

Thomas Wittmer, born 1962 in Freiburg im Breisgau / FRG. Already during his schooltime, Thomas Wittmer showed interest in computers and started writing his first programmes. After graduation from Highschool in 1982 he began studying informatics at Karlsruhe Technical University. Since 1986 he is with a Freiburg computer graphics company, where he has the possibility of working with high-quality graphics systems. This enables him to graphically express his own ideas. Thomas Wittmer is developing own programmes and techniques and is constantly working at the enhancement and enlargement of existing graphics systems.