Playful sandbox app for simulation based generative art
Code Sketches GH UniverseMicrobium is intended to be a fun and user friendly sandbox for experimentation with simulation based generative art. Drawing mode is designed for simplicity; all shapes and strokes are drawn with a single brush tool. In simulation mode, the physics engine takes over; all strokes and geometry become part of a physically modeled system, creating fluid organic animations.
The geometry data model is built around the concept of a vector network. Rather than each stroke or shape having its own individual points, they're globally shared. All strokes can be interconnected to each other, creating complex geometric forms and dynamics. This data model integrates well into the underlying physics engine, where stroke segments become the physical constraints in the system.
The interface is designed to be simple and intuitive. There are only a few settings and tool mechanics to learn to start making interesting art, while more depth in style and motion can be achieved with the flexible rendering and simulating systems' more advanced settings. All of these can be controlled in real-time through MIDI input for dynamic performance sequences.
My initial motivation for this project started with a jellyfish; people seemed to really enjoy observing the mesmerizing movements of these organic forms. This was an experimental project to test some of my ideas for simulation based animation, but the process was very limiting: I had hand-coded procedures for generating and connecting all the parts and components of the form. I wanted a fun tool and better process for myself and for others to experiment more freely, so Microbium came to be.