Date: Saturday, Nov 15, 2024
This week, we transitioned from generative patterns into data-driven creative coding through arrays, CSV files, and introductory APIs. Saber began with an overview of how loops expand naturally into arrays, then into tabular data, and ultimately into visual storytelling. We started by reviewing Assignment 3 projects, discussing noise animations, grid patterns, and refinements to nested loop sketches. Saber then introduced arrays as a new data structure, demonstrated how to store and iterate through lists of values, and showed how those numbers could drive shapes, color, motion, and composition.
Next, we explored CSV data with loadTable(), extracting columns and mapping values into visual forms. Mid-session, guest artist Patt Vira joined from Bangkok to share her inspiring journey from mechanical engineering to creative coding and teaching. The session wrapped with a look at public APIs, JSON data structures, and the playful possibilities of dynamic, real-world information.
Homework Review: Patterns & Generative Art
Participants revisited Assignment 3 sketches using nested loops and noise. Teachers discussed frame rate adjustments, dist()-based interactions, and tuning noise increments, connecting these ideas to the coming shift toward structured data.
Mini-Lesson: Arrays for Visual Meaning
Saber introduced arrays conceptually (“a list of related values”) and visually (“each value becomes a mark”). Demonstrations included bar charts and circle sequences. This recap includes pulsing animations, and color-mapped displays.
Mini-Lesson: Working With CSV Data
preload() + loadTable()Teachers saw how arrays scale naturally into CSV workflows.
Guest Speaker: Patt Vira
Patt shared her path from mechanical engineering to creative coding, highlighting supportive communities, accessible learning paths, and small “tadaaa!” wins. She discussed sustaining practice, balancing imagination with structure, and helping beginners discover joy in code.
Intro to APIs
Saber introduced basic API principles, including loadJSON(), public API lists, Met Museum data fields, and secure ways to handle API keys. Teachers explored JSON objects, artwork metadata, and simple ways to pull live data into p5.js.
Patt shared how she first found programming difficult, then discovered its creative potential through interactive art and computational design. Teachers asked about engineering influences, artistic process, and how she guides young learners through the early phases of skill development.