CREATIVE PROGRAMMING

grade

8

C&A

T&R

In short

Within the course of Creative Programming, I learned the basics of programming software such as Arduino and Processing in order to develop a creative static visualization. Furthermore, developed knowledge of programming software was combined with the use of electronics to eventually create a hybrid product, consisting of physical and digital elements.

MD&C

Challenge 1

In an attempt to showcase my acquired knowledge of Processing software for visualizations, a static visualization has been created, including a range of computing facets. The idea behind my creation is all about contrasts and simultaneity. In my creation, there are 3 windows in which the same landscape is visible, just from a slightly different perspective, emphasizing that the experience of landscapes can change in various ways based on the time of the day, but in the end will always remain the same landscape.

Challenge 2

Unlike many other students, I decided not to create a game for the assignment of creating a hybrid interaction, as this would limit the opportunities for originality, while a game usually automatically covers all the coding elements which are expected to be included in the creation. Therefore, I made sure to use my own creativity and forced myself to ideate of ways in which I could translate the acquired skills to my creation in an original way. This eventually resulted in a better understanding of the information from the lectures and an increased sense of self-assurance with programming.

As a result, using Processing and Arduino software along electronic components, I created a desert landscape with high attention to detail and aesthetics since this was very much appreciated in the first challenge. Interactivity was enhanced through the integration of a Teensy, enabling the opportunity to change the landscape from night mode to day mode and back by using a potentiometer. Another interactive element is the incorporation of a light switch button, switching on the lights in the windows of the building.

Another interactive element in this creation is the camel, operatable with up-down-left-right keys. Lastly, to enhance personalization opportunities of the scene, a feature has been integrated, enabling to plant cacti in the desert and build a desired cacti landscape.

Learning points

Throughout the course, I set goals for myself, such as becoming familiar with coding and incorporating new coding elements into my work. I successfully achieved these goals by staying informed, applying new knowledge, and continuously improving my work. Although I prefer working independently, I learned the value of seeking help from others, which is of value as a designer while realizing that outsourcing knowledge and considering external perspectives is essential for enhanced product development.

Furthermore, recognized the importance of focusing on my own progress and personal boundaries in contrast to comparing my work with others.

This shift in perspective allows me to prioritize the essential elements and maintain a healthy workflow, being crucial as a designer, especially in high-pace environments.

Also, I discovered the significant role programming knowledge plays in the design process. Understanding coding basics enables effective communication of design functionality and reduces misunderstandings between designers and collaborators during the prototyping phase. This newfound understanding has motivated me to further expand my knowledge on the realization of designs form a technological perspective.