Algorithmic Paintings

Using a custom set of instructions and a dice-roller, I follow rules and paint.

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Mondrianesque Test Sample

Project Description

In this project, I write algorithms to execute by hand. Using random numbers and following my own instructions, I create abstract artworks that question the human element in their creation. There is room for mistakes in these pieces, but not for my aesthetic preference. Depending on the ‘Random Number Gods’ each time I roll dice, outputs from these projects might take sublime or chaotic forms.

This follows in the tradition of Sol LeWitt and other generative artists who explored physical creation by algorithm. It continues my work in generative art and manual recreation of generative art, which I first explored in my Art Blocks project ‘FOCUS’.

Technical Notes

Each piece in this series uses a named algorithm (and version number). They are 1/1’s and completely created through analog inputs. Executed with professional paint and media, all are signed and include a certificate of authenticity / notes from execution.

Artworks:

Mondrianesque

Exploring ‘De Stijl’ and Piet Mondrian’s color block style, I expand and experiment with both traditional and unorthodox colors, textures, and color intensity.

Execution Algorithm v.1:

1. Divide canvas surface into a 12×12 grid, the depth of canvas on sides extends the painting to ~14x~14 grid. The origin at 0,0 sets the top.

2. Begin the Drawing Cycle from the origin.

i. Determine box dimension Maximums, Mx|My:

– If x|y < 4, Mx|y = floor((10 – x|y) / 2) + 1

– If x|y >= 4, Mx|y = floor((14 – x|y) / 2) + 1

ii. Get random box dimensions, dice roll based on Mx|y:

– Lightly mark box boundaries

iii. Choose box fill color by D20, and mark:

– If D20 <= 10, fill with base color.

– If D20 > 10, choose random color by D4|D5|D6|D8.

– Any overlapping box sections of different colors go to black.

– If D20 = 20, and box does not extend over an edge, it’s bullseyed.

iv. Move to next empty location and restart Drawing Cycle:

– If next grid position is in existing box, increment y before x:

– Move down the column to next open position.

– At end of column, move to next row and repeat as necessary.

3. After canvas is fully marked, paint all fills:

i. Paint in order from lightest to darkest.

– Bullseyes alternate nested boxes between fill and base color.

4. After all fills are painted, paint box boundaries:

i. Re-mark box boundaries as needed.

ii. Determine line thickness based on number of separated boxes (1-?).

iii. Paint boundaries with incrementally larger brushes.

5. Once complete, sign and number on the back of the canvas.

(Photos of completed works are coming soon – new project Jan. 2026)