Saturday, August 31st, 2024
10am - 2pm
Are you intrigued by the possibilities at the intersection of art and technology? Curious about creating captivating visuals and soundscapes through intuitive software? Join us for a hands-on workshop that delves into the world of generative art with TouchDesigner, led by new media artist Alex MacLean!
This immersive session at Forest City Gallery is designed to introduce you to the fundamentals of TouchDesigner, a powerful node-based tool for creating real-time interactive visuals and audio. Whether you're an artist, designer, or simply curious about digital creativity, this workshop will equip you with the skills to start your journey in generative art.
We’ll begin with an introduction to the basics of generative visuals and sound art, exploring how artists use algorithms and data to produce dynamic and evolving artworks. Then, through step-by-step tutorials, you'll learn how to use TouchDesigner to create your own generative projects. From manipulating visual elements to crafting soundscapes, you'll discover how to bring your artistic ideas to life in a digital format.
This workshop is designed for those new to the field—no previous experience with coding or digital art is required. You'll have plenty of time to experiment, develop your own projects, and receive guidance tailored to your creative goals.
By the end of the session, you’ll walk away with a solid foundation in TouchDesigner and the confidence to continue exploring generative art on your own. This workshop is perfect for anyone looking to expand their artistic toolkit and explore the creative potential of software.
Let’s explore the world of generative art together and see what new creative pathways emerge!
It's recommended that you download the TouchDesigner software beforehand, found here.
Please sign up using the form found below:
Workshop Leader Bio:
Alex MacLean, also known as Sunntack, stands at the intersection of art and technology exploring new frontiers in experimental electronic music and live AV performance. With a deep-rooted passion for human ecology, alternative futures, and science fiction, Alex's artistic journey is a tapestry woven from sound and visuals, merging audio-reactive video projections into immersive experiences.
His creative path has been marked by significant milestones, including being a signature artist for Ocean Week Canada in 2024 and the recipient of the the 2022 City of Hamilton Arts Awards Shirley Elford Emerging Artist Commission Prize, recognizing his innovative contributions to the arts. Alex's work has resonated on global stages at conferences and festivals like the International Conference on Live Coding (ICLC), New Interfaces for Musical Expression (NIME), and the Network Music Festival, where he captivates audiences with his unique blend of technology-driven artistry.
Educationally, Alex holds an MA in Communication and New Media from McMaster University, complemented by specialized training in AV production, bio data sonification, and algorithmic composition. Professionally, he bridges his artistic endeavours with roles as a backend software engineer and technical artist, bringing a nuanced understanding of digital arts and technology to his practice.
Through his work, Alex transforms technology into a canvas for expression and sound into a conduit for storytelling, offering audiences glimpses into uncharted realms of art and innovation. His ongoing exploration and commitment to pushing creative boundaries make him a dynamic force in the contemporary art scene.
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