Graphics interchange format (Gifs) as micro movies

Abstract

GIFs have become much more than they initially promised; they are much more than a format, and they are a mode of expression as well as a creative act as micro movies. Micro movies have been around since the capture of motion. Although they have gone through transformation, the principle characteristics have remained. This thesis attempts to demonstrate this through a brief media archeology with the aim to highlight what it represents today, as what they are commonly known as GIFs (Graphic Interchange format). The thesis also aims to highlight a significant role that micro movies have shouldered in daily life: a mode of expression in form of digital gesture. The project of the thesis is based on this idea and exhibits the common digital culture features, platforms, production and exhibition methods that we observe in GIFs which we see regularly on our daily online lives and attempts to do so with a local touch.