Pixel expression was born of technological limitations,and is now an established style of digital art. Having evolved through video games, it now leaves viewers with a feel of being retro,…

Pixel expression was born of technological limitations,and is now an established style of digital art. Having evolved through video games, it now leaves viewers with a feel of being retro, and also encompassesnew sensibilities, values, and continues to exhibit anexpressive power even in a modern context.

The rise of pixel expression can be linked to the technological restraints of the 1970s and 1980s. Low digital resolutions and limited color palettes forced people to be creative when producing attractive visuals.

The emergence of 3D graphics led to a temporary waning in pixel popularity, but the late 2000s brought with it the indie game movement, and thrust pixels
back into the limelight. Especially in the West, this ever-increasingly ‘intentional’ method of expression is simultaneously nostalgic and symbolic of a modern alternative.