Software is an art medium

When we think about software, we do it in a practical sense. Professionally, we use it to accomplish our work, improve our productivity, be more organised and communicate with colleagues. In our personal life, while these reasons can apply to a lesser extent, we mainly seek software to simplify the consumption of entertainment.

Another aspect, less thought about, but arguably as important as the practical aspect, is the artistic approach to software. Unfortunately, in modern software, the art is trapped within the rules of UI/UX design. Soft shadows, rounded corners, mostly neutral colours, categorised emphasis colours (danger, info, success, warning, primary...), clean icon set. Overtime, software became more convenient, at the cost of fun and interesting design. While it is generally needed in a work environment, it does not need to be this way in our personal space.

Software can be used as a form of self-expression

What I like about Linux and open-source is the space it provides for self-expression. I can truly create a digital space that matches who I am. Like paint, software and code can be combined to create a art piece, be it a desktop environment, website or different software. Aside from logical rules of a markup/programming language, there is really no limitation on how you can use it and what you can create. It does not even need to be useful at all. Fun and beauty can be a goal in itself.

However, artistic creativity is easily obscured in the software world. The industry's emphasis is on productivity, velocity, profitability. Independent developers have to use their limited time wisely. User want to accomplish a task with the least amount of effort. All these reasons are understandable, of course, but it makes me a bit sad nonetheless.