Computation in Design

Jansley Anne

Introduction

Welcome to my portfolio website!

HERE, you will find a collection of experimental designs created through coding that showcase my passion for creative exploration and my love of having fun. As you browse through my work, you will see that most of my designs are highly driven by fun, as I believe that creativity and innovation are best achieved when one is free to play and explore without the constraints of rigid logic or practicality. By embracing the fun and playful side of design, I am able to step out of my comfort zone and push my creative boundaries, resulting in unique and exciting designs that are both aesthetically pleasing and intellectually stimulating.

This approach wasn't always easy, but it was definitely enjoyable as I was able to explore new things I had yet to try. Through experimenting with coding, I discovered the boundless opportunities for design in technology, and the joy that comes from creating something that is not only functional but also fun and visually engaging.

Ultimately, I believe that the most fulfilling part of the creative process is the journey itself - the thrill of experimentation, the satisfaction of overcoming obstacles, and the joy of discovering something truly unique and innovative.

Workshops

During each of these workshops, I was challenged to think outside of the box and explore new avenues of design. Whether it was learning how to create complex algorithms through code or experimenting with different materials to create unique shapes, each workshop provided me with an opportunity to grow both as a designer and as a person. Working in small teams allowed us to bounce ideas off of each other and collaborate on projects that were truly one-of-a-kind.

As you browse through my portfolio, you will find a variety of process documentation and deliverables that showcase my creativity across a range of design disciplines. From digital designs to physical installations, each project reflects my commitment to pushing boundaries and exploring new possibilities.

Jump to workshop one, two, three or four.

Workshop one

Coding is a workshop by Andreas Schlegel that looks at the creative application of code in the design process. The workshop presents students with various briefs to choose from, such as Augmented Reality, Soundscapes, Image Generator, and AxiDraw. It provides students with a unique opportunity to explore new mediums of design through the use of code. By experimenting with different technologies and unconventional design methods, students can enhance their technical skills while expanding their creativity and imagination. The workshop allows students to witness firsthand how a simple line of code can transform into a stunning visual representation, providing a valuable learning experience. It has become a popular choice among students seeking to expand their design capabilities in exciting and innovative ways.

Dasha Plesen's incredible work with psychedelic mold has been a tremendous source of inspiration for me on my design journey. Her ability to turn something seemingly unpleasant into a beautiful and captivating work of art is truly remarkable. I was so inspired by her approach that I decided to take a similar path, which led me to create the FUN-guis Augmented Reality project. By looking more towards the unappreciated world of fungi, I was able to create a fun and exciting design that showcases the wonders of nature. This project has taught me to embrace my creative side and challenge myself to try new things, and I'm eager to keep pushing my limits as a designer while being inspired by talented artists like Dasha Plesen!

Tools used: Blender, Visual Studio Code, p5js

Link to external outcomes, Augmented Reality

Workshop two

Making by Dhiya is an innovative workshop that challenges participants to express their personal narrative and interpretation of Cosmic Dust through the creation of an organic shape made entirely of paper. In this workshop, participants are encouraged to think creatively and outside the box as they use paper to bring their visions to life. With guidance from our expert instructors, participants develop technical skills such as paper cutting, folding, and shaping to create unique and expressive forms. Through this hands-on process, participants learn how to think critically about design, exploring the concept of Cosmic Dust in a tangible and meaningful way. This workshop is an excellent opportunity for participants to explore their creativity and express themselves through a unique and engaging medium.

This workshop was an excellent opportunity for me to explore my creativity and express myself through a unique and engaging medium. I thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to explore my personal narrative and interpretation of Cosmic Dust through the creation of an organic shape made entirely of paper. I truly enjoyed the experience of bringing my childhood memories to life and connecting my interests in sea stumps to something I could explore in a structured and supportive learning environment. I am grateful for the guidance and expertise of Dhiya, who helped me develop my technical skills and pushed me to think critically about design. Overall, this workshop was an enriching and enjoyable experience that allowed me to expand my artistic horizons and create something truly meaningful.

Tools used: 120gsm black paper, Blender, p5js,

Workshop three

Screens is a projection mapping workshop led by Jo Ho that aims to teach students how to design a set with a compelling narrative through the use of visuals and forms created from any choice of material. The workshop's theme is "otherworldly," and it encourages students to create designs that transport viewers to a fantastical and imaginative space. Through hands-on experience, students learn to create and manipulate digital images to project onto physical surfaces, creating an immersive and captivating experience for audiences. By experimenting with different materials and designs, students can explore the potential of projection mapping as a storytelling tool, inspiring creativity and pushing boundaries. This workshop has created an opportunity for us to explore the intersection between technology, design, and storytelling.

Overall, this workshop taught me the importance of adaptability and flexibility in the creative process. Even when things don't go as planned, there's always a way to make it work and create something beautiful. It was a valuable experience that not only honed my technical skills but also challenged me to think on my feet and trust my creative instincts. I had a lot of fun exploring the endless possibilities of projection mapping and I'm excited to continue experimenting with this innovative medium in the future.

Tools used: 120gsm white paper, projector, p5js, Adobe Photoshop and After Effects



Workshop four

Play is a workshop by Jake Tan Zi Jie that explores the integration of physical computing into the design process, allowing for a seamless interface between physical and digital spaces. The workshop provides students with the opportunity to experiment with different electronic components and sensors to create interactive designs. Through hands-on experience, students can learn to develop responsive and interactive systems that bridge the gap between the physical and digital realms. The workshop aims to spark creativity and encourage experimentation by blending technology and design, providing students with a unique perspective on the possibilities of physical computing in the field of design.

The Play workshop by Jake Tan Zi Jie was an incredible experience that allowed us to explore the world of physical computing in design. Initially, we had planned to create something related to communication, such as Morse code. However, we realized that this approach would limit the spontaneity of the workshop. So, we decided to create a game inspired by minesweeper instead. Although it was confusing to work through the codes and make the visuals appear as intended, we managed to make it work in the end. It was undeniably fun watching our ideas not only come to life but also have the others interact and enjoy it.

Tools used: Arduino, Button, p5js



Conclusion

What have I learned over the course of this semester? In my coding class that used different mediums, I discovered that I could learn more than just technical skills. I developed problem-solving abilities through writing code on a computer, building robots, and working on team projects. Collaborating with others helped me improve my communication and teamwork skills. Overall, I found that coding classes with diverse tools can provide a well-rounded learning experience that benefits both technical and soft skills.

Some of my most interesting findings this semester are? One of my most interesting finds is how diverse the world of coding is. I used to think coding only involved creating software, but I learned that it goes beyond that. In fact, coding has a wide range of applications that cater to every aspect of life, from fashion and art to healthcare and social justice. This discovery opened my eyes to the endless possibilities of coding and how it can make a positive impact in various industries and communities.

What are some of my achievements? One of my greatest achievements in coding is overcoming my fear of new software, especially those involving 3D technology. Initially, I was intimidated by these tools, but through practice and determination, I not only overcame my fear but also produced impressive work with them. Additionally, I found that reading codes became much easier as I gained more experience and exposure to different coding languages. Overall, these achievements have boosted my confidence and expanded my skills in coding.