ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on the visual elements of virtual reality (VR) – the simulated pixels that drive the experiences. It begins with a discussion of the psychological and physiological elements that drive simulated VR. This includes optics, perception, and conceptualizations of space as they relate to traditional fields, particularly the ideas of personal space, action space, and vista space. A step back is then taken to discuss the renaissance roots of western art and how Brunelleschi’s mirror and Alberti’s window have fed and driven the discussion, perception, and ideologies driving western artistic practice since their conception. This led to the mirror, window, and frame metaphors that were then taken forward into the digital space with user interface and experience design. Some artistic movements and technologies prior to VR challenged these notions, but several flaws existed in their approaches that are potentially alleviated with the use of contemporary VR systems.
