Spreadsheets might seem to be the epitome of science conquering art, as the programs are specifically designed to eschew aesthetics in favor of processing power, but the spreadsheet graffiti created by artists Marina Esmeraldo and Mallory Heyer shows that even the driest software can be used to creative ends. In collaboration with Refinery 29 and Google, the pair used a humogous Google Spreadsheet to craft spreadsheet street art.
Google Spreadsheets, while mostly focused on functionality, allows cells to be filled with any color on the color wheel. Further, the spreadsheets can be infinitely extended both vertically and horizontally. Seizing on those opportunities, the artists made a tremendously large sheet and then proceeded to color in each square so that, when taken in from a distant enough perspective, they created a rich spreadsheet graffiti tapestry.
Repurposed Spreadsheet Graffiti
Refinery 29 Used Google Spreadsheets to Create Street Art
Trend Themes
1. Functional Art - The trend towards integrating artistic elements within functional objects.
2. Unexpected Mediums - Artists using unconventional or unexpected tools and materials to create works.
3. Collaborative Art - Artists working together with companies to create unique, disruptive pieces.
Industry Implications
1. Technology - Developing new products that incorporate artistic elements or unexpected mediums.
2. Advertising - Collaborating with artists to create unique and memorable campaigns using unconventional tools or methods.
3. Interior Design - Incorporating functional art pieces created using unexpected materials or methods into interior design projects.