What is algorithmic art?

Algorithmic art is a form of art that is created using algorithms, often with the help of a computer, but not necessarily. It is a subset of generative art, where artists use mathematical instructions or code to create visuals, rather than crafting each individual component by hand. The process typically involves writing a set of rules or instructions (an algorithm) that the computer then executes to produce the artwork. Artists define parameters or rules for the artwork, and the final output is often influenced by randomness or variable inputs. This type of art emphasizes the creative potential of systems and automation. The artist’s vision is realized through the computational execution of code. The art may evolve through iterations, leading to unique outputs each time the algorithm runs.

Pre-Digital Algorithmic Art

Though we think of algorithmic art as a product of modern technology, its roots trace back to the mid-20th century, well before computers became widely available.

  • Geometric abstraction: Artists like Piet Mondrian and Victor Vasarely were early pioneers who employed rule-based systems in creating geometric abstraction. While not strictly algorithmic in the modern sense, their work laid the foundation for exploring structure and repetition in art.
  • Dada and Surrealism: Movements like Dada and Surrealism embraced randomness and rules to break from traditional artistic forms, sometimes using procedural techniques that resembled algorithmic approaches.

Early Digital Algorithmic Art (1960s – 1970s)

The 1960s marked the true dawn of algorithmic art, with the rise of computers enabling artists to explore new creative methods.

  • Frieder Nake: One of the earliest practitioners, Nake used a computer to generate artworks based on a mathematical algorithm in the mid-1960s. His work “Homage to Paul Klee” (1965) is considered a landmark in the genre, where Nake used a computer algorithm to recreate the compositional logic of Paul Klee’s paintings.
  • Vera Molnar: She began her career as a traditional painter but became fascinated with geometric abstraction and the use of mathematical systems in art. In the 1960s, she was one of the first artists to experiment with computers, using them to generate geometric patterns by writing algorithms. Her work often explores the tension between order and randomness, introducing small “errors” or disruptions into strict, rule-based structures. Some of her works:

“(Dés)Ordres” (1974): A series that transitions from perfectly aligned squares to disorder, illustrating the blend of control and chaos. 

“Interruptions” (1968-1980s): This series disrupts geometric grids with deliberate interruptions, exploring randomness within structured forms.

“Transformations” (1974): Incremental changes to a grid generate complex, unpredictable results, showing her mastery of controlled randomness.

Molnar’s innovative use of early computers and algorithmic systems has made her a key figure in the history of digital art.

Des Ordres 1974 - Vera Molnar

Dés Ordres (1974) – Vera Molnar

  • Georg Nees: Another pioneer, Nees, collaborated with physicist Max Bense to create the first exhibitions of computer-generated art. His work “Schotter” (1968) used controlled randomness, gradually disordering a grid of shapes to explore chaos and order.
  • Manfred Mohr: A digital art pioneer, Mohr was inspired by abstract expressionism and conceptual art. His work “Cubic Limit” (1973) utilized algorithms to explore geometric transformations, particularly hypercubes.

 

Cubic limit (1973) – Manfred Mohr

Schotter 1968-1971 - Georg Nees

Schotter (1968-1971) – Georg Nees

Algorithmic Art in the Digital Age (1980s – 2000s)

As computer technology evolved, so did algorithmic art. The increasing power of personal computers allowed artists to create more complex systems, resulting in stunning visual outputs.

  • Harold Cohen: One of the best-known algorithmic artists, Cohen developed a program called AARON, which was capable of autonomously creating artworks. Starting in the 1970s, Cohen constantly refined AARON, allowing it to generate everything from abstract forms to more sophisticated human-like figures over the decades. AARON is a landmark example of how an algorithm can act as an independent creative agent.
  • Ken Knowlton: Working at Bell Labs, Knowlton was one of the first to explore the artistic potential of computer graphics. His “Studies in Perception I” (1966) converted images into digital mosaics, a precursor to pixel art.
  • Roman Verostko: Verostko combined his background in fine arts with a deep interest in coding to create algorithmic artworks using custom software. His works often involve elaborate, flowing lines and abstract forms, such as “Epigenesis” (1989), exploring natural processes through algorithms.

Algorithmic Art in the 21st Century

Today, algorithmic art is more accessible than ever due to advanced tools and platforms. Artists now utilize complex algorithms, artificial intelligence, and blockchain technology, giving rise to novel forms of creativity.

AI and Deep Learning in Art

The arrival of artificial intelligence and machine learning has dramatically transformed algorithmic art.

  • Mario Klingemann: A leading figure in AI art, Klingemann uses neural networks to create surreal, ever-evolving artworks. His piece “Memories of Passersby I” (2018), an AI-driven installation, generates continuous portraits of fictional people in real-time, showcasing how machines can produce lifelike yet imaginary subjects.
  • Refik Anadol: Known for large-scale digital installations, Anadol uses algorithms and data to create immersive experiences. His “Melting Memories” (2018) transforms brainwave data into mesmerizing, abstract visuals, exploring the intersection of memory, machine, and human consciousness.

Generative Art and Blockchain

The rise of NFTs (non-fungible tokens) has brought algorithmic art into the spotlight. Digital platforms have allowed artists to create unique, programmable art using blockchain technology. Some of the most interesting generative artists nowdays are:

  • Tyler Hobbs
  • Snowfro
  • Dimitri Cherniak
  • Iskra Velitchkova
  • Erik Swahn
  • Emilie Xie
  • Matt Deslauriers
  • Kazumasa Teshigawara (qubibi)
  • Jacek Markusiewicz
  • Kjetil Golid
  • Julien Gachadoat
  • Piter Pasma
  • Per Kristian Stovelan
  • William Mapan
  • Bjorn Staal
  • Nekropunk

The Impact and Future of Algorithmic Art

Algorithmic art has revolutionized how we think about creativity, breaking down barriers between technology and artistic expression. As algorithms and AI tools become more sophisticated, the boundaries of algorithmic art will continue to expand. 

Moreover, with the rise of digital galleries, NFTs, and the metaverse, algorithmic art is not just a niche form of creativity; it’s influencing the future of how we perceive and consume art.

Algorithmic art, from its early days in the mid-20th century to its current manifestations in AI and blockchain, reflects the constant evolution of both art and technology. It is a medium where artists harness the power of computation, randomness, and structure to create endlessly innovative works, pushing the boundaries of human imagination and creativity. As technology continues to advance, algorithmic art will undoubtedly remain at the forefront of artistic experimentation.