I never really understood data visualization. I love the look of many data visualization graphics, but as a whole field- it's somewhat of an enigma to me. I understand info graphics, and graphics created for specific results, but mostly the data visualization that I was seeing seemed pointless to me. Then I saw the work of Ben Fry. It started to come clear to me. The work was beautiful, yet purposeful.
Dave explained in class that "the purpose of data visualizations is to identify a pattern that would otherwise be invisible."
That sentiment is beautiful in a way.
I hope that my work will reveal the patterns of drowning and accidents that could have been prevented.