[0] introduction
welcome to my semester summary, where i delved into the integration of design and code. through the four workshops in the computation in design module, i explored the practical applications of coding for tangible visual outcomes. join my journey on pushing beyond traditional design boundaries by leveraging computational technique — from coding precise machine plot-drawing, making three-dimensional objects into reality, projecting light art onto surfaces, to designing generative art physical machine.
[1] generative design
starfall symphonies
by andrea & shruti
we find meteor showers an alluring part of nature, yet in its organic context — they consist of calculated lines. it bridges the gap between nature and robotic geometric shapes. with this in mind, we can easily break down the complex shapes into simple understandings in code. the code itself consisted of randomly generated circulating arches, we plotted these precise lines onto paper with the axidraw machine. and by the end of it, it's interesting to see how perfect and imperfect the machine was. it was something we embraced along the way in making the posters.
[2] code to thing
gold dust
by andrea
upon my research on cosmic dust, i found microscopic images of tiny cosmic particles. they are stardust that landed on earth from outer space which can be found casually on your dining table or rooftop — well, isn’t that charming? overall, they often maintain a wonderful round crystal shape. thus for this project, i would like to recreate that geometric crystal ball shape to communicate cosmic stardust, making it a perfect pentakis truncated icosahedron shape. it's such a simply straightforward shape yet needs precarious calculation, and that's where the help of coding and 3d modeling steps in.
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[3] projection mapping
this food is out of this world
by andrea & saurish
featuring a chinese take-out box which was overtaken by a vortex (i wonder where will the portal will take us?), this project is an invitation to reflect and find the extraordinary in the ordinary things in life. we wanted to communicate this message effectively by sprinkling magic into everyday things we take for granted such as a nice humble meal. instead of looking for magic in bigger better worldly things, we can find it in what is in front of ours if we truly look for it.
[4] physical computing
sandscape
by andrea & saurish
just like beaches and deserts, we wanted to recreate these landscape terrains consisting of beautiful swirls, ridges and lines that are organically formed. this is where we created a sandscape box utilizing a vibration motor and a potentiometer. in order to mimic such three-dimensional topography, the sandscape box was built with a potentiometer to control the vibration motor that will jiggle the sand around the box — creating fascinating random map outcomes.
[5] conclusion
this semester, i've learned extensively and accomplished so much. i've expanded my knowledge and developed essential skills, and all challenges have been overcome with resilience and determination. reflecting on my journey, i'm proud of the progress made and the growth achieved.
