Session 1: This week let’s take a look at more examples of approaches to creative coding. Today we will take a quick look at paperjs, which is a library designed to make coding vector graphics more accessible.

Paper.js is an open source vector graphics scripting framework that runs on top of the HTML5 Canvas. It offers a clean Scene Graph / Document Object Model and a lot of powerful functionality to create and work with vector graphics and bezier curves, all neatly wrapped up in a well designed, consistent and clean programming interface.

Lab 1: Today is an open lab in preparation for group critiques scheduled for Lab 2.

Session 2: In addition to p5js and paperjs there are lots of other available JavaScript libraries that lend themselves well to creative coding projects.

A-Frame.io – JS library For building 3D/AR/VR experiences
Tone.js – Web Audio framework for creating interactive music
Three.js – A library to make WebGL more accessible
Pts. (points) – A lightweight library for visualization and creative coding
Web MIDI API – Article for getting started with the Web MIDI API

On the physical computing side of things there are many websites that host tutorials and offers sales of electronic components to help artists with their creative coding projects. These include the following:

SparkFun – Components focused on creative coding and Arduino
Adafruit – Creative Coding component specialists
Instructables – Explore, document, and share your creations
Mouser – Globally authorized distributor electronic components
DigiKey – Minnesota based electronic outlet

Lab 2: Please be prepared today for our third in-person group critiques.