Visual Music / Lesson 3 / Generative Patterns

Lesson Overview

As discussed in Stills To Motion module, we are hardwired to find patterns in shapes that are similar and arranged closely together. In this module, we can explore pattern making as a synaesthetic device, influencing the frequency, amplitude and continuity of repetitive shapes and images to rhythmic effect.

Lecture Videos

1. Generative Patterns: History and basic concepts

(Generative Patterns Lecture Video)

2. Generative Patterns: VDMX Demonstration

(Generative Patterns Demonstration Video)

Lecture Notes

(Generative Patterns Lecture Slides)

Reference Links

• The Book of Shaders Chapter 9: Patterns
• 10print
• SimoNeri - Natural Rhythms

Resources

• ISF Pattern Examples
• BlackHole (BlackHole replaces Soundflower; also note that VDMX6 can receive audio streams directly from other applications)

Related Tutorials and Case Studies

• Creating and installing ISF generators
• ISF from Silvia Fabiani

Homework

Assignments

Create and record black and white or color patterns:

• Four still image capture
• Two video sequences, about 10 seconds each

Lesson Overview

1. What are some properties of patterns Patterns?

• Symmetry
• Rotation
• Chaos, flow, meanders
• Fractals

2. What are some patterns found in nature?

• Snowflakes
• Spirals
• Waves, dunes
• Bubbles, foam
• Cracks
• Spots and stripes

3. What are some geometric pattern styles?

• Tiling
• Visual motifs
• Patterns with code (eg Goto10, Sol LeWitt)

4. Introduction to GLSL

• What are shaders?
• Why are they fast?
• What are some examples of patterns made with GLSL?