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By, Emily Xie Developers often refer to their trade as both “art” and “craft," using the two interchangeably. Yet, the terms traditionally refer to different ends of the creative spectrum. So what is code? Art or craft? Come explore these questions in this interdisciplinary talk: What is art versus craft? How does coding fit in once we make this distinction? Is the metaphor we use to describe coding even important––and why? You’ll walk away from this discussion with a better understanding of what creating and programming means to you, and what it could mean to others.
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In her talk 'Coding: Art or Craft?' at RailsConf 2015, Emily Xie explores the metaphors of code as both art and craft, challenging the audience to reflect on what programming means to them. She begins by defining the terms 'art' and 'craft,' explaining that while craft is associated with skill and utility, art is connected to creativity and emotion. Xie argues for the importance of these metaphors in framing our understanding of programming, which is a major part of our professional lives. Key points discussed include: - **The Role of Metaphors**: Metaphors simplify complex concepts, and Xie highlights that they significantly influence how we understand coding. - **Code as Craft**: This metaphor emphasizes a rich tradition of craftsmanship, focusing on skill mastery and collaboration. Xie traces the evolution of this perspective within the software development community, referencing significant works that laid the foundations for the software craftsmanship movement. - **Code as Art**: Emerging as a contrasting idea, this metaphor positions coding as a form of artistic expression. Xie emphasizes that programming, similar to art, involves creativity, intuition, and personal expression. - **Historical Context**: Drawing parallels with the evolution of art during the Renaissance, she illustrates how coding could transition from a purely functional craft to a recognized art form. - **Aesthetic Experiences**: Xie discusses the aesthetic qualities of code, likening the creation of code to artistic endeavors, where choices reflect the programmer’s personality. - **Duality of Coding**: Ultimately, Xie concludes that coding encompasses elements of both art and craft, inviting the audience to appreciate the complexity and richness of their work. Significant examples include the influence of historical figures like Michelangelo and the modern-day auctioning of computer code, which parallels traditional art auctions. Emily’s main takeaway is the importance of embracing both metaphors to foster a creative and innovative approach in software development, encouraging programmers to view themselves as artists.
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