Generative Art with JavaScript and SVG

This book introduces you to the exciting world of generative art (artwork that are solely or partially created with the use of an autonomous system) through the medium of SVG and JavaScript. More specifically, it will teach the use of Graphery SVG (gySVG), a JavaScript library that closely mirrors the SVG spec and makes scripting SVG very intuitive and enjoyable. Armed with gySVG, the reader will be taught tried and trusted techniques in producing generative imagery. Each chapter will build upon the previous one, and those completely new to programming will be given a primer to help them find their feet.

Beginning with a simple generative sketch that illustrates, and then explains, fundamental programming concepts such as variables, data types, operators, loops, conditionals and functions – the reader will go on to explore the power of Scalable Vector Graphics, how to play with randomness and regularity, how to use noise to create organic variance, and how to make sketches interactive and dynamic. More advanced topics will then be tackled, such as paths, filter effects, trigonometry, shape packing, flow fields and fractals.

It will be a fun journey, easy to follow, peppered with plenty of attractive sketches throughout. The goal will be to visually inspire readers with compelling examples of what’s possible – rather than bare-bones, make-do illustrations – thereby breathing life into the underlying theoretical concepts.

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN:

• Generative art is and its creative process
• How to use the gySVG library locally with Node.js or online via Codepen
• Consolidation of JavaScript fundamentals, using modern ES6+ syntax
• Creating a variety of SVG shapes generatively
• Creating iterative variations of sketches by randomizing parameters
• Using noise to create organic variance
• Creating complex SVG paths generatively
• How to make sketchesinteractive

WHO IS IT FOR:

Web developers and designers and creative coders with an interest in digital and generative art as well as artists who are interested in learning to code with JavaScript.

Table of Contents

Chapter 1: The Beginner’s Path

Chapter 2: A Programming Primer

Chapter 3: All About SVG

Chapter 4: Randomness and Regularity

Chapter 5: The Need for Noise

Chapter 6: The All-Powerful Path

Chapter 7: Motion and Interactivity

Chapter 8: Filter Effects

Chapter 9: The Generative Way

About the Author

​David Matthew is a web developer, designer and musician with over 11 years of industry experience who is passionate about generative art and web development, music visualization and in particular, SVG and the often untapped potential it offers.

David blogs on topics including JavaScript, CSS WorldPress and creative coding and as a regular producer of generative art, he showcases his work on his Instagram page: instagram.com/davidmatthew_ie