Book excerpt: Not all artists want to create static, unilluminated works to hang on a wall, and with Electronics for Artists, they don't have to. With today's modern technology-LEDs, servo motors, motion sensors, speakers, and more-artwork can incorporate elements of light, sound, and motion for dramatic effects. Author and educator Simon Quellen Field has developed a primer for creative individuals looking for new ways to express themselves though electronically enhanced art. Following step-by-step examples of basic circuitry and programming, even a novice reader will develop the skills necessary to enhance their works. Demonstration projects then give artists a chance to build and program a more efficient light dimmer, randomly flashing LEDs using an integrated circuit, a controlled servo motor, and more. The book even includes art projects to try, include a bouquet of glowing flowers; an LED metronome; a talking computer; Cecil, a sensile robot; and Rover, a simple wheeled robot. A variety of artistic works created by Field's students and based on these open-ended lessons are also included to provide creative sparks for the readers. For those interested in programming their circuits, Field explores the basics of Energia, a free software package, and provides simple programs to create flashing light patterns, computer controlled motors, and LCD text displays. Simon Field is the author of Why Is Milk White?, Culinary Reactions, Why There's Antifreeze in Your Toothpaste, and Gonzo Gizmos, and is the creator of the popular Web site www.scitoys.com.