Module: CCO4101-20 Image, Sound and Code

Level: 4

Credit Value: 20

Module Tutor: Ron Herrema

Module Tutor Contact Details: r.herrema@bathspa.ac.uk

1. Brief description and aims of module:

The ability to deal competently with graphics and sound is a fundamental dimension of Creative Computing. Whether you are developing games, web apps, virtual reality experiences or interactive graphics, it is critical that you have an understanding of the key features of image and sound, as well as the tools and techniques that bring them together in creative ways.

Image, Sound and Code introduces the foundations of working with digital graphics and digital audio, while offering practical experience with a range of programming tools and environments. You learn how to code audio using visual programming languages, text-based languages, and APIs. The graphics portion of the module extends the application of code into the visual arts, adopting a studio-based approach to expose several modes of practice in this area. Here you encounter the Java-based graphics language Processing, glitch art (databending, datamoshing), algorithmic art (fractals) and live coding.

2. Outline syllabus:

Drawing to screen (Processing basics, shapes, colour, user input, movement)

Breaking video files (datamoshing)

Data visualisation

Databending (splicing, altering, destroying across multiple file formats)

Generative art (history, case studies, techniques and technologies)

Live coding (both audio and graphics)

Acoustics and the fundamentals of sound

The nature of digitising sound

Open source audio editors

Standard audio effects (filters compression, etc.)

Programming audio with visual programming languages

Common audio frameworks/APIs

3. Teaching and learning activities:

Class Hours

Studio sessions introduce creative concepts. We cover historical underpinnings, notable artists/artworks and fundamental production techniques. Each session spotlights one or two key ideas, which become the basis for small explorative projects conducted individually or in small-group collaboration. Sessions also feature regular show and tell sessions. These require all students to present their work in progress, as well as the artworks and creative concepts that have inspired and informed them.

Independent Learning

Individual study time should be dedicated to continuing/extending in-class experimentation, investigating the territory further (seeking and discovering new creative techniques), and exploring the work of other audio and visual artists who exploit code. It is good practice to prepare your individual experimental work for tutor and peer review. Regular feedback and iterative production most often lead to better creative artefacts.

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: CW

• Description: Visual Artefact

• % Weighting: 50%

Assessment Item 2:

• Assessment Type: CW

• Description: Audio Artefact

• % Weighting: 50%