This first image is not a photograph at all, but rather a reproduction of Kuang DaÕs painting ÒAfter TransformationÓ (1988). The title associates with a saying: ÒAfter you have experienced the great ocean, itÕs difficult to appreciate ordinary water.Ó Kuang Da is a founder of a highly regarded society of Chinese artists whose work primarily centers on representing the harmony between humankind and the natural world. (Used with permission of the artist.)

This image shows colorful signage on the huge HilonÑmainly digitalÑ electronics retail complex in Zhongguancun. A late-model Lexus appears in the foreground.

In the Zhongguancun districtÑBe^ijin^gÕs Silicon ValleyÑa young couple carries computer components. A computer case and a power supply appear in the young manÕs hands. The term ÒDIYÓ is part of _the Chinese vocabulary and is commonly applied to constructing computers from components in this way.

Offerings from both Apple and Windows-based computer manufacturers include lovely looking machines that integrate the computer into the same product form as the display. Such practices are a likely impediment to upgradability. As such, they stand in contrast to DIY consumer culture pictured previously.

May + June 2008