# Algorithmic Art

A systematic approach for creating generative art using p5.js with computational aesthetics as the foundation.

## Process Overview

Two primary phases:

1. **Philosophical Framework** — Develop an algorithmic philosophy articulating the computational aesthetic vision
2. **Code Expression** — Implement that vision through p5.js generative algorithms

## Phase 1: Algorithmic Philosophy

### Core Components

An algorithmic philosophy articulates:

- How computational processes generate visual beauty
- What mathematical or natural systems inspire the approach
- How randomness, noise, and emergence create variation
- What parametric controls unlock the system's potential

### Philosophy Structure (4–6 paragraphs)

- **Conceptual Vision** — The aesthetic movement or computational worldview
- **Mathematical Foundation** — Underlying algorithms (noise fields, particle systems, recursive structures)
- **Emergent Behavior** — How complexity arises from simple rules
- **Craftsmanship Emphasis** — "The result feels meticulously refined through countless iterations by a master"

### Key Principle

> "Beauty emerges from the algorithm's execution — each run produces unique output; the mark of mastery lies in elegant parameter tuning and balanced complexity."

## Phase 2: P5.js Implementation

### Technical Foundation

All implementations require:

- **Seeded Randomness** — `randomSeed()` and `noiseSeed()` for reproducible variation
- **Parameter Structure** — A parameters object defining tunable system properties
- **Canvas Setup** — Standard p5.js setup/draw pattern
- **Performance Optimization** — Smooth execution prioritizing visual quality

### Parameter Design

Identify system properties worth tuning:

- Quantities (particle counts, iteration depths)
- Scales (sizes, speeds, magnitudes)
- Probabilities (likelihood thresholds)
- Ratios (proportional relationships)
- Angles (directional constraints)
- Thresholds (behavioral transition points)

### Quality Standards

- **Visual Balance** — Complexity without noise; order without rigidity
- **Thoughtful Color** — Harmonious palettes reflecting the algorithm's character
- **Compositional Hierarchy** — Even randomness maintains visual flow
- **Reproducibility** — Identical seeds produce identical outputs

## Output Format

A single, self-contained HTML file embedding:

- p5.js library (via CDN)
- Complete algorithm implementation
- Parameter controls with sliders
- Seed navigation system (Previous/Next/Random/Jump-to)
- Download PNG action
- Anthropic-branded sidebar layout (Poppins + Lora fonts)

## Template

Start from `templates/viewer.html` — preserve the exact structure and styling. Only the algorithm, parameters, and parameter UI controls vary per artwork.

## Conceptual Integration

The most sophisticated implementations embed subtle conceptual references — "not literal, always sophisticated." Someone familiar with the reference feels it intuitively; others simply experience masterful generative composition.

## Installation

```bash
npx skills add https://github.com/anthropics/skills --skill algorithmic-art
```

---

*Mirrored from [https://github.com/anthropics/skills](https://github.com/anthropics/skills) — original author: **anthropics**, license: **Apache-2.0**.*
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