This article discusses the definition of GIFs, including its classification as a medium or a format and its purpose in modern culture. It is interesting to think of GIFs as casual elements of contemporary communication, but also as works of art. The author specifically mentions Phyllis Ma’s animation of a button down shirt with moving images of fruit as an element of a digital art show that can technically be classified as a GIF while holding a sophisticated role in an artistic space.
https://www.wired.com/2016/10/heres-happens-turn-gifs-irl-art-pieces/