A still from the video for the Pet Shop Boys single Integral, which makes use of Data Matrix code
Just when you thought you'd seen the end of barcode art (regrettable tattoos, predictable Banksy graffiti, that sort of thing), along comes Data Matrix.
A Data Matrix is able to carry more data in a smaller space than traditional barcodes. So that's a good thing. Another good thing is that it can also act as an internet link if you have a web-enabled phone. And creative types are beginning to sit up and take notice. Not least in the field of music design, where there's an obvious application for fans wanting to get more information.
The video for the latest Pet Shop Boys single Integral makes amazing use of Data Matrix code, animating between the pixellated boxes to make it part of the artwork. And if you take pictures of the video, you're directed to more content on a PSB site.
One can't help thinking there's a lot more of this to come - and a blurring between the lines of interactive design and video art. In the meantime, designer Jeremy Leslie notes on his magCulture blog that Esquire magazine has been having fun with barcodes of the traditional kind since its recent redesign too ...
