Mastering GLSL in TouchDesigner, Lesson 12: Feedback Effects

Feedback loops allow shaders to reference their own past outputs, enabling evolving textures, simulations, and motion effects. In this lesson, we explore how to use GLSL for pixel sorting, displacement mapping, and generative growth solvers to create dynamic visuals.

📌 Key Topics Covered:
✅ What is a feedback loop, and why is it useful?
✅ Implementing pixel sorting and interactive displacement mapping
✅ Using growth solvers to create organic animations

🎨 Exercises & Challenges:
🛠️ Modify pixel sorting to operate on specific color channels
🛠️ Build a custom displacement shader with procedural noise
🛠️ Use feedback loops to generate evolving, generative textures

🔗 Find me online:
📁 Project Files & Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/water__shed
🌎 Portfolio: https://www.lakeheckaman.com
📷 Instagram: https://instagram.com/lake_heckaman

00:00 – Introduction to GLSL Feedback effects in TouchDesigner
02:06 – GLSL Feedback Effects in TouchDesigner
03:35 – Begin TouchDesigner Examples
04:12 – Simple GLSL Pixel Sort
17:40 – GLSL Displacement with Feedback
26:07 – Growth Solver
38:13 – Exercises