The light where we meet

This algorithm, inspired by fireflies, creates tumbling waves of colour which evolve, unrepeating, eternally. As the artwork builds, individual lines explore the canvas, tracing paths through unseen flow fields and defined geometries. When the paths meet, they connect and close into shapes. These shapes then seek out their neighbours and respond to one another.

In some species of firefly, each individual in a swarm influences and is influenced by the rhythmic flashing of others nearby, causing the cloud to synchronise in glowing ripples. Each firefly, or shape in this piece, holds an internal clock and, when it completes a cycle, a flashing pulse begins. Each clock independently ticks forward slowly but, when it sees others are flashing, it steps in larger leaps, causing waves of flashes to set off in turn.

Beneath the surface, a handful of unseen drifters wander quietly, carrying a hidden current through the swarm. Chance encounters with these passers-by nudge the chorus of clocks further forward, blooming into unexpected surges of light.

There is no centralised control of the timing of flashes across the collection of shapes. Each responds to its environment individually, yet together they form a system greater than themselves. In their meeting, they make light.

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Controls

Once drawing is complete, 'd' enters interactive drawing mode, where you can add your own geometries

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Part of Responsive Dreams 2025 Festival by The Generative Art Museum 19/20/21 September 2025. Nau Dents de Serra, Roca Umbert Fàbrica de les Arts, Granollers, Barcelona More info: responsivedreams.com/2025