led by hexler (RJ Fischer)
September 13-16 2010, 10:00-12:30 / 13:30-17:00, Studio 21, Art Academy
Public presentation of workshop results: September 16, 20:00 - 21:00

Programming Reactive Live Visuals is an introduction to graphics programming with focus on creating a live visuals system that can be controlled and played in real-time using various input methods ranging from the computer's keyboard and mouse to midi-keyboards and controllers. In the workshop we will be using the open-source cross-platform Processing programming environment to create a visual framework that can be extended with custom effect plug-ins that can be "played" live with various methods of input.

Day 1: Introduction to Processing (Optional)

Basic introduction to programming with the Processing environment. No prior programming experience required but basic computer skills are definitely helpful. This is optional for people who already have intermediate or advanced programming knowledge with Processing or other programming environments.

Day 2: Creating a live reactive visuals framework in Processing

Step by step building of the live visuals framework that allows to quickly and easily develop smaller effect plug-ins that can be loaded and switched dynamically and exchanged between users and are able to react to input by the user in different ways. Various methods of input for live manipulation of these plug-ins will be integrated and explained and also a small library of helper functions for animation and common tasks will be developed to make it easier to use repeating building blocks in the individual plug-ins.

Day 3: Assisted development of plug-ins by the students.

Students should develop their own ideas and produce a couple of effect plug-ins of their own to be shared and demonstrated the following day.

Day 4: Demonstration and performance of student developed plug-ins

plus Q&A session and discussion.