Algorithmic art

Algorithmic art, also known as generative art, refers to art created by an autonomous system using some kind of algorithm or computer program. Algorithmic art relies on computational processes rather than manual human effort to produce original creative works.

In algorithmic art, the artist designs the system or process that generates the artwork rather than directly creating a static final product. Algorithms, programming languages, and computer systems act as the artistic medium. The algorithm may include randomness or other non-deterministic processes to introduce unpredictability and uniqueness to the output.

Some common techniques used in algorithmic art include:

Generative grammars - Following syntactic rules to construct content
Fractals and recursion - Mathematical patterns generated through repetition
Cellular automata - Applying rules to arrays of cells
Swarm intelligence - Emergent systems like flocking birds
Machine learning - Using neural nets to synthesize content

Pioneers of algorithmic art include artists like Frieder Nake, Vera Molnár, Manfred Mohr, John Whitney, and Charles Csuri. In the digital age, algorithmic approaches have become widespread in generative art and design.