Think outside Photoshop - new image editing concept (vladstudio.com)

Also, Russian translation and discussion - http://habrahabr.ru/post/172403/

Honestly, it's a pity to see my idea sink deeper and deeper into HN news black hole. I really hoped to discuss it. Not the first time though :-)

Immediately reminds me of GEGL[1], the new library underneath the GIMP[2].

[1] http://www.gegl.org/

[2] http://www.gimp.org/

We call it non-destructive editing in the audio world. I believe Aviary attempted what you're suggesting with Peacock, now Nodewerk [1].

[1] http://nodewerk.com/