A motherboard may appear obsolete before our eyes, or become a useless piece of technology if it is beyond any repair. However, in the hands of artists like Joe Dragt, motherboards are transformed into windows of inspiration. Dragt has created a series of paintings using these components as canvas.
In a matter of minutes, I can get my hands on at least half a dozen non-functional motherboards, but I could never create something like what Joe Dragt has accomplished. This is not about repairs or restorations; it's pure art, even if some prefer to label it alternative. Instead of entering the recycling cycle or being left to pollute the environment for years, Joe Dragt turns these discarded motherboards into a formidable medium for his talent.
The boards Joe used for his art are non-functional or very old. On this, Dragt once said: "Many times I have wanted to paint on working motherboards. The problem is figuring out how to prevent the paint from damaging the circuits or causing the board to overheat. I would like to team up with a manufacturer to print my work directly on the boards, so that they function correctly." And although those of us who build our own computers usually think more about the technical than the aesthetic, having a printed option wouldn't be bad.
Gallery: Motherboard Art by Joe Dragt
For more of Joe Dragt's work, visit his official website.
