Strata explores the field of geology and more specifically rock layering. In the physical world, layered rocks form when particles settle from water or air. These layers of sedimentary rock are called strata. In the digital world, the Strata algorithm generates layer upon layer of colors to draw the impression of rock layering. Each token hash decides the unique path Strata takes through the generative space to the final output.

Strata

“mono no aware” is an exploration of change at the borders between existence and emptiness. Shapes and colors appear, twisting and fading gradually into new forms. The evolution of the system creates unpredictable and surprising emergent patterns, as deviations from neat symmetry quickly evolve into chaos. The animation is a cellular automaton running with no pre-defined end — but some patterns don’t have what it takes to survive indefinitely. That’s okay; not everything lasts forever (but the pieces will restart in this case).

[Click] to restart. The Level of Detail (LOD) on each animation can be adjusted using [Left Arrow] for less, or [Right Arrow] for more, to allow a customized visual experience and achieve the desired framerate for various devices. Note that while different LODs all follow the same animation rules, they may exhibit slightly different behaviors from each other due to size-dependent resonance — much as the same guitar string plays different notes at different lengths. Each token contains a family of several closely-related animations to choose from.

mono no aware

In this optical parade, motion is created from the harmonious expansion and contraction of colorful bars. Click to pause. *Photosensitive seizure warning: These artworks contain flashing colors and moving patterns. Dutch auction starting at 2 Eth and proceeding through the following tiers every 5 minutes until a resting price of .5 Eth is reached: 2 -> 1.5 -> 1  -> .5

Parade

**:: UMK [Ultra Mechanika]. Beyond technology ::**

Imagine a world where technology not only advances mechanically, but also adapts and changes in response to its environment. 

In this view, machines could evolve into a variety of forms, from biological and organic to architectural and industrial, each with its own unique capabilities and characteristics.

The UMK algorithm could be thought of as a life form that has evolved from a seed. Its DNA defines the way in which it grows and develops.

**:: Motivation ::**

UMK expands my previous explorations of the interaction between humans and technology. 

Previously, In the "Defrag Trilogy" (link in the website), I narrate a tale spanning three chapters, exploring the emotions we encounter as we mature amidst a technologically world. The conclusion: technology emerges victorious every time.

This time, I delve into the idea of a world where human intervention is not necessary, showcasing a hypothetical scenario where machines operate and evolve independently. What would self-evolving technology look like?

**:: Aesthetics ::**

As a devout admirer of Manga and graphic novels, the style of the artwork is centered around creating a hand-drawn, captivating one-page masterpiece. 

With UMK, I embark on a journey of maximalist illustration. A path that pushes the boundaries of my previous creations to achieve  figurative pieces that are both visually stunning and unpredictably intriguing.
 
This maximalist approach is designed to evoke a sense of wonder and exploration. The intricate use of textures and interlocking geometries invites the viewer to dive into the artwork and be entranced by the details and nuances. 

**:: Animation ::**

Animation is crafted to captivate and hold the viewer's attention. Sit back and savor the mesmerizing construction mechanics and the gentle flow of the subtle elements in the background.

**:: Final words ::**

In UMK there is a touch of the clean and dreamlike drawing of Jean Giraud (Moebius), the intricate technological structures of Katsuhiro Otomo, or the biomechanical orgies of H.R. Giger. These are some examples of artists who have left a lasting impression on me and whose works continue to shape my aesthetic sensibility.

Art lies within the code itself. When we view the outcome on the screen, we are witnessing the crystallization of the algorithm at a specific moment, under certain conditions. The code is immutable and the results are mere coincidence. 

Enjoy UMK.

**:: Interaction ::**

You can restart the animation or save it as a hi resolution PNG image.
Tap the screen or mouse click to show the reset/save buttons.
Also you can use keys: 'S' to save , 'R' to restart

Paths is an animated journey across various subterranean and aboveground environments. To fully experience the project, you need to see it in high resolution with a capable GPU. Make sure that your browser uses your dedicated graphics card if any, and that you get a good frame rate. Control keys: 1-4 (change speed), 9 (fill aspect ratio), 0 (original aspect ratio), space-bar (play/pause)

Art Blocks Presents

Paths #387

Darien Brito

More in Art Blocks Presents

Strata

Vebjørn Isaksen

mono no aware

ixnayokay

Parade

Loren Bednar

UMK

Fernando Jerez

Art

Company

Learn