*Arcadia* is a homage to the fridge-worthy landscape art of our youth. Childhood techniques of creating art are re-imagined by the scribbles of a nostalgic, computer-assisted mind.

**Spacebar**: Skip animation and load final image (useful when rendering in high resolutions)
**Up arrow**: Speed scribbles up (default speed is the highest)
**Down arrow**: Slow scribbles down

Arcadia

**Gels** is a science-inspired generative piece. Our algorithm simulates *gel electrophoresis*, a powerful experimental method in molecular biology used daily by thousands of scientists worldwide. In the lab, scientists "run a gel" to separate and visualize molecules such as DNA, RNA, and proteins. These molecules appear as patterns of bands when photographed, and those patterns can be used to interpret the results of experiments. 

The DNA band patterns in this work derive from combinations of a simulated experimental data and real-world data, including DNA sequences that encode several variants of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, and the corresponding mRNA vaccines. Our algorithm first generates plausible sample tubes that typically contain one or more DNA fragments. Then, each sample is distributed and "run" on a simulated gel to create the characteristic band patterns that might be observed on real gels.

Our simulations also take into account human error — mistakes are common in the lab, especially for novice researchers, but they can also lead to visually interesting results. For example, uneven salt concentrations or applying excess voltage can cause warping effects.

Finally, we aim to leverage proceeds of this project to support future scientific research! We invite interested collectors to follow along with our future work.

Gels

Mathematics goes deeper than we are taught. The square roots of negative numbers point us towards the shallows of an abyss, as the simple number line expands into the complex plane. Stranger still, that plane is INHABITED, filled with microbe-like entities, among others, waiting to be reified by the right algorithmic invocation. Each work in this apeirographic series is at once a dynamic work of art and an interactive instrument of insight into some of the biomorphic inhabitants of the mathematical realm. Touch the centre to pause and resume the dynamic aspects of the Thereidoscope. Touch the top and bottom to zoom into and out of the biomorphs shown, and the sides to reset the zoom level. Every Thereidoscope is a work of generative fine art and a thoughtful example of slow art, aiming to intertwine the benefits of static and dynamic works, creating an ever-changing experience tempered by aesthetic cohesion that offers something new every time one looks, but without loudly demanding constant attention.  Being resolution, aspect ratio, and framerate independent, Thereidoscopes offer a visually consistent experience on different devices and screen sizes; but are intended to be experienced on large, high resolution displays as long-term/permanent installation pieces.

Thereidoscope

Horizontal and vertical threads weave together guided by a punching card generated at the moment of transaction. Often randomness distorts the orderly woven pattern. Thread colours are picked from a single colour palette. 10% of the sales from this drop will be donated to charity: water to bring clean and safe water to people in need.

Loom

A collaborative project that transitions the visual aesthetic of a Matt Bilfield peg piece to the generative art world. “Pixels” from the physical world take on new life as the limitations of reality are removed and they are free to assemble and morph without the rigidity or permanence of wood, paint and glue. Round and square variants incorporate multiple color palettes into four unique styles, each with their own distinct attributes. Additional variety in dimensions, depth, color placement, animation, and light modes ensure no two are alike. Make sure to explore the intricacies of each piece by using the mouse to see all angles. Keyboard shortcuts: a: toggle animation, r: reset camera position, s: save screenshot.

Art Blocks Presents

Arcadia #47

Zachariah Watson

More in Art Blocks Presents

Gels

Jason Brown - Shawn Douglas

Thereidoscope

Daïm Aggott-Hönsch

Loom

Anna Lucia

Transitions

Jason Ting x Matt Bilfield

Art

Company

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