Virtual artifact

Previously it has referred to objects of different nature (e.g. images, user interfaces, models, prototypes, computer animation, or virtual books) that exist in digital environments.

The development of the visual presentation techniques (e.g. linear perspective, cinematography) enabled more sophisticated methods to describe these artifacts, events and entities in painting, photography and film.

Moreover, virtual artifacts were (and still are) commonly found in environments that require a strong imaginary aspect in order to be experienced, such as radio shows, novels, tabletop role-playing games, etc.

The development of computing enabled the creation of interactive virtual environments that were based on digital technologies and new methods of presentation.

Even previously unknown, complex forms and imaginary artifacts (e.g. fractals) could be created and represented in these environments.

[3] Some virtual artifacts are purely abstract in their nature, therefore they can't model real-life objects or phenomena.

For example, computer programs or digital user interfaces, while often containing representative components of real-life objects, can't exist in physical terms.