werkstatt

I've been trying to recreate pioneering computer-generated artworks as an excuse to learn p5.js. Recently, I went for one of Georg Nees' untitled pieces from 1970, published by Werkstatt Edition Kroll.

The artwork features a grid of polygons with increasing segments inscribed within the perimeter of circles, the polygons become progressively more complex as the segments increase.

The artwork, programmed on a Siemens System 4004 demonstrates Nees' innovative use of geometric forms and his skill in creating complex, visually stunning compositions with simple programming techniques.

To get started, I focused on building a single module, breaking down its construction into smaller steps that I can control later on. Each module is formed by grabbing a random set of points from the perimeter of a circle and then connecting them randomly to form a closed polygon.

Adding a slider to control the number of selected points helped me fine-tune the animation's timing:

Once satisfied with the animation, I replicated the module in a rectangular grid, adjusting density based on its location in the composition:

https://dam.org/museum/nees-talk-nake/

https://collections.vam.ac.uk/item/O1347720/werkstatt-edition-kroll-print-georg-nees/