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Genetic Typography
by Viviana Cordova
This explosion of type (above) based on the word “typography” uses the game of life algorithm—originally devised by John Conway in 1970— to achieve hierarchy and motion in a 2D environment using Processing. This particular formula helps to activate the canvas in a systematic way, where every single word has a mathematical connection with each other. Also, it helps to balance the reaction between cells dying too fast and when too many are being born. Conway wanted to create a new form of patterns that are live and stable, by evolving a formula that could be infinitely self-generating. Like life itself, he created a balance that will maintain a stable population. Using a grid and cells that are typographically visible (the word “typography”), the formula self-generates continuously; and it can be reset with a simple mouse click on the window. By using automata theory, we create columns and rows that are squared, using our x and y axis coordinates within the canvas, and use mathematical elements to self-generate and organize the cells themselves. This gives the result a live status, using the parameters in the formula. It self-generates with a skipping movement as the typography moves across the screen.
For more information: the book, TYPE+CODE Processing for Graphic designers.
