[For workshop at Merz Akademie]

Remember Philip Galanter’s definition of generative art:

Generative art refers to any art practice where the artist uses a system, such as a set of natural language rules, a computer program, a machine, or other procedural invention, which is set into motion with some degree of autonomy contributing to or resulting in a completed work of art. "What is Generative Art? Complexity Theory as a Context for Art Theory"

See also Generative art on Wikipedia.

Types of generative systems

Generative systems can be broken down in basic types. In reality, most works combine several types.

Randomized composition
- Joshua Davis: Kimono sketch
- Erik Natzke: Experiments
- Michael Meredith: Ivy
- William Burroughs: Cut-up technique (see also this page)

Kinetic systems
- Casey Reas: Process 9
- Marius Watz: Illuminations A

Formal grammars
- 12-tone composition
- Shape grammars
- Chris Coyne: Context free design grammar

Biological models
- Genetic algorithms
- Karl Sims: Evolved Virtual Creatures (see movie)
- Cellular Automata: Conway's Game of Life
- L-systems
- Algorithmic Botany

Analytical / data-based
- Ben Fry: Anemone
- Martin Wattenberg: Shape of Song

Game strategies
- Alison Mealey: Unreal Art

Performance systems:
- Golan Levin: AVES
- Generator.x concert tour: Lia, Frank Bretschneider, Marius Watz