Sometimes, a commercial software program like Flash or Photoshop doesn't offer artists all of the creative tools they need. There isn't a shortage of visual and sonic effects offered in commercial programs. If we make a software tool ourselves, we can customize it easily. Plus we instantly know how to use it, of course. Get Wired News delivered to your inbox or hand-held device.
Some critics believe the category is dubious, believing software can only be utilitarian.
Others think creative, non-commercial code crunching is a legitimate form of conceptual art. While I personally hesitate to use the term 'software art,' specific questions are being raised about artists' relationships to software. Basically, purists believe no artist should work with software unless they can write code. But that can be a problematic stance. Send it .