I came across the above video by Patrik Huebner when browsing related contents for the analog clock project. The video demonstrated the unlimited potential that creative coding might open us up to, and it was really inspiring to see various use of generative art.
Several key terms for definition: Creative coding refers to use programming as a method to create a story or expressive piece. Generative art is the art that are partly or wholly created by an autonomous system (non-human system).
On his website, there are some great projects and ideas for creative coding (check them out at: https://www.patrik-huebner.com/ideas/). After browsing through, I summarized several key advantages of creative coding in creating visuals:
Use looping effectively, preferably seamless
One of the key advantages of creative coding is to have things on a forever loop, and the dynamic transformation could be much more easily programed than animating frame by frame.
Use transformation
For example, typography wise, we could create more dynamic typography with creative creating by free transform single or various elements in size and position.
Use noise or patterns
This might be particular effective when applying a masking on top or formalize into a recognizable pattern at the end.
Incorporate user input
Creative coding is especially powerful when the graphic could be responsible to human input, from simple keystrokes to gesture control.
Blend in some 3D
3D effect could be achieved either by the lighting and texture, or it could be relative movements.
During the writing of this post, I also stumbled upon a new whole world called VJing, which is used to describe real-time visual performance, similar to what we know about DJing, but with visuals. I have always thought the visual images used in the music festival and live music sets are all pre-shot, and transitions and effects are all predetermined, but it’s actually a lot more that are done on the spot. More importantly, many of these visuals utilize creative coding to make. Just thought i include this as well.
