The Fifth Medium

Cmo Yu

My thesis explores five different dimensional medium tools for visual translations and works to provoke discussion about future technologies and designs in our lives. Through 2D (Flat media), 3D (sculpture), 4D (motion), virtual reality, and the newly emerging Augmented Reality technology, I tested a set of optical letterform assets in different visual interpretations to examine the level of interactions and viewer experiences between each medium. All five mediums have their own limits and possibilities, therefore there is no single medium that holds an obvious advantage over the others. Instead, a graphic designer or a visual communicator should take all five mediums into consideration while designing a complete experience for the audience and should choose wisely according to the need and purpose of the project.