Can a Computer Be a Work of Art?

Meet Maya Hayuk. She's been gracing the in-the-know art scene and now she's gracing the casing of the new Sony VAIOs. Hayuk's signature works include large painted murals on buildings, album covers, and more. Her work is known for its organic feel and smacks of rituals borrowed from everything from the tantric to the Mexican Indians. (That's boomer appeal!)

Sony just launched a limited number of VAIOs that feature Hayuk's work on their covers. Sony uses a dye sublimation technique to embed the image on the cover. The results look fascinating and sophisticated (though I couldn't tell you about design durability).

If you loved Yellow Submarine and Peter Max, you'll love Maya Hayuk. One of her VAIOs is called "Grow" and has a green/blue/purple forest motif. The other is called "Never Stop" and looks like a cross between a high tech circuit board and geometric patterns flowing off your computer. Both are signed by Hayuk and come with a certificate of authenticity.

These are high-end systems that start at about $2,500, not due to Hayuk's commission as much as being top of the line Sony VAIO FZ systems. The machines include Blu-ray, a 15-inch screen, and more. Limited editions will only be sold at Sony Style stores and online.

Those looking to make a statement this year might consider a Hayuk limited edition. And judging from announcements like HP's changeable skins for PCs, Dell's colorful collection, and more, it's clear that the trend is to make the computer more personal. Sony's got the lead for the moment, but looking into the crystal ball I'm betting that within 18 months you'll be able to select your favorite artists (copyright issues to be determined) and choose them to grace your laptop case. Big worry is what to do when the guy sitting next to you on the plane holds his computer in your face and says, "Hey, get a look at this picture of my kids!"

Let your creative juices flow. Tell us what design you'd flaunt on your computer.