Setting the Purpose and Identifying Key Factors - Data Visualization: A Successful Design Process - page 32

In the following example, we see an example of data art (as defined by the creator
himself) that visualizes all the adjectives used in Cormac McCarthy's topic The Road .
The adjectives are arranged radially in alphabetical order and each line represents a
timeline of the topic, beginning at the perimeter:
Image from "Adjectives of The Road" ( http://distantshape.com/the_road.html ), created by
Kemper Smith.
The effect is an interesting artifact to look at and its construction is representative
of an impressive technical or algorithmic solution, but its primary intent is not to
easily allow us to learn about the language in the topic. I would personally position
this right on the boundary between an exploratory visualization (static, but allowing
readers to look up combinations of adjectives and see patterns) and data art.
We characterized explanatory visualization as a single visual experience and
exploratory as a numerous but finite set of experiences. By contrast, the range
of reactions to exhibition-type designs has a more open and unlimited potential.
It aims for and triggers more of an aesthetic reaction, which means our emotional
connection and interpretation can vary significantly from one person to the next.