Scientific Foundations of Computer Graphics

It is apparent that computer graphics has become a well-known technology that is used in a broad spectra of application areas. For example, in fields like computer aided design, animation, scientific visualization and medical science the importance of computer graphics is evident. But what are the scientific foundations upon which computer graphics relies? Is computer graphics merely a useful tool in various research areas and scientific projects or would it rather be regarded as a science in itself, with its own methodological framework and research methods? In this paper, the nature of computer graphics is discussed from a theory of science perspective. The research methods of computer graphics are discussed and reasons are given to support the conclusions that computer graphics is indeed worthy to be classified as both a science and an engineering discipline, as well as a special art form.