This workshop will introduce parametric drawing tools and produce a set of drawings using SJSU's UR robot. The workshop will focus on two areas:
Using a combination of Rhino, Grasshopper, and Illustrator, you will learn how to develop a parametric workflow where you are creating a machine that produces an infinite number of variations of a design. Although Illustrator is a powerful tool, it often feels cumbersome for repetitive tasks. Using Grasshopper you can automate these tasks and explore the larger design space of your ideas.
Automation is a power tool in manufacturing and cheaper and safer robots are now available for artists and designer to explore. Although Illustrator is a vector artwork program, as soon as you print with it, it turns your artwork into pixelated drops of ink that are produced in linear passes of the print head. Using tools like pen plotters (e.g. AxiDraw), CNC routers, or industrial robots like the San Jose's new UR5, you are able to physically draw your artwork as vectors and to explore a wide range of media and tools.
Drawings of Matsys (Andrew Kudless)
Drawings of Variable Projects (Adam Marcus)
Generative Hut: The Home of Generative Art
Robert Hodgin's Meander Project
Wednesday, March 17 8am - 10:30am Pacific Time
This first day of the workshop will introduce the students to Grasshopper as a platform and demonstrate the full process from text to curves to robot movement and code.