Week 3 — Nested Loops & Generative Patterns: From Random to Organic (visit from Qianqian Ye)

Date: Saturday, Nov 1, 2024

Session Overview

This week, we explored systematic pattern creation through nested loops in p5.js. Attendees shared their second assignments, showcasing bouncing animations and clicker games while troubleshooting challenges like font loading and trail effects. Guest artist Qianqian Ye (Processing Foundation/USC) presented her "Machines Dream of Magic" project and reflected on her tenure as p5.js Project Lead, emphasizing accessibility and community in open-source development. Saber then introduced nested for loops for grid creation and compared random() versus noise() functions — preparing everyone for Assignment 3.

The session closed with assignment details, schedule reminders (no class next week), and a preview of upcoming topics on arrays, CSV data, and visualization, with plans for our final two sessions.

https://youtu.be/y9lN_C1Y0HM

Highlights & Takeaways

• Animation Project Showcase

  Participants presented Assignment 2 projects — bouncing shapes, interactive games, and visual effects. Discussions covered timing systems, velocity calculations, and debugging common issues like font paths and alpha transparency.

• Guest Speaker: Qianqian Ye

  Shared her artistic practice and experience leading p5.js from 2022-2024, demonstrating interactive installations and discussing open-source community building. Participants asked about Unity development, Processing Foundation fellowships, and balancing technical leadership with creative work.

• Mini-Lesson: Nested Loops & Noise

  • Introduced the nested for loop structure for grids.
  • Variables for rows and columns create systematic layouts.
  • Compared erratic random() to smooth noise().
  • Demonstrated 2D noise with animated examples.

• Studio Work Time

  • Foundations track: static grid with random variations.
  • Creative expansion: animated patterns using noise() in draw().

Guest Spotlight: Qianqian

Qianqian Ye, artist, educator, and former p5.js Project Lead, demonstrated her interactive installation work and shared insights from stewarding one of creative coding's most important platforms. Having transitioned leadership to Kit Kuksenok in 2024, Qianqian reflected on how community-centered development shapes tools that empower diverse creators worldwide.

📘 P5.js Leadership Journey

During her tenure from 2022-2024, Qianqian focused on making p5.js more accessible and sustainable:

• Global Reach: Improved non-English documentation and examples