Creating Generative Visuals with Complex Systems – Simon Alexander-Adams

Workshop: Creating Generative Visuals with Complex Systems
Example Files: https://tinyurl.com/Summit2019-SimonAlexanderAdams

This workshop will walk participants through the process of creating real-time generative visuals using two types of systems: reaction-diffusion and cellular automata. Both methods yield a variety of complex and often non-repeating patterns.
Reaction-diffusion systems model the changing of one or more chemical substances. The examples that will be addressed in the workshop include beginner level TOP-based methods and a brief discussion of intermediate level techniques using GLSL. Cellular automata are simulations consisting of grids of cells which change their state based on simple rules. Participants, along with the instructor, will build 1D and 2D cellular automata systems from scratch using GLSL and will look at examples which incorporate decaying cells (or the “generations” variation) along with methods for utilizing multiple rule-sets in one system.
These patterns, while compelling on their own, can also be used as the input to other systems. This session will help participants understand how to use their motion to drive particles systems and manipulate geometry, in addition to exploring how to add interactive elements to these systems, such as audio-reactivity and motion control from a Kinect or Leap Motion. Above all, the workshop will expose participants to an iterative approach to creating generative visuals, exploring ways of reusing concepts and techniques in new ways.

Instructor: Simon Alexander-Adams
Simon Alexander-Adams is a multimedia artist working within the intersection of music, visual art, and technology. He directs multimedia performances that connect sonic, visual, and kinetic forms, creates interactive installation art, designs new interfaces for musical expression, and produces generative animations and audiovisual works. His work has been presented at international festivals, including Electric Forest, the Ann Arbor Film Festival, and the 2018 Bi-City Biennial of Urbanism/Architecture Shenzhen.
Alexander-Adams has also composed music for short films, theatrical, and dance performances, and performs regularly with the art-rock band saajtak, which has performed at Sonic Circuits (D.C.), Strange Beautiful Music (Detroit), and has shared the stage with musical artists such as Xiu Xiu, Gaelynn Lea, Vicky Chow, New Music Detroit, Laurie Amat, Alan Licht, and more. He received an MA in Media Arts in 2015 from the University of Michigan, School of Music, Theatre & Dance.

Website: https://www.simonaa.media/