Hydra FCS is a framework for synthesizing visual patterns by composing functions for curves and surfaces, implemented as an extension to Hydra, a popular tool for live coding visuals. I presented this work at the ACM SIGPLAN International Workshop on Functional Art, Music, Modelling and Design (FARM) in Milan, Italy.

I developed a technique for real time manipulation of visual animation of particle systems based on mathematical equations for complex, self regulating systems, based on my thesis (below). I published and presented this work at the International Conference on Live Coding in Shanghai.

At ENIGMA Lab at the University of Pittsburgh, I studied dynamical systems describing bursting oscillations in neurons. I learned and assisted the lab in understanding how both spiking and bursting arise in dynamical systems via bifurcations, and developed a framework for tuning systems of coupled neurons to obtain desired patterns and frequencies, which can assist in the design of neuromorphic electronics. I also made a GUI in Pluto.JL for bifurcation analysis and numerical simulation of these systems.

We can think of a pixel in an image as a ball in 3D space, where its x, y and z coordinates correspond to its level of red, green and blue, respectively. Just like a ball’s motion is guided by physical rules like gravity, we can construct rules to guide a pixel’s motion through color space. We can develop striking visuals by applying these rules, called dynamical systems, onto images using animation engines. My senior thesis explores a number of these systems while exposing the underlying symmetrical structure of color space. I also build and demonstrate a visual DJ board for manipulating these systems. More here.

In collaboration with Gabrielle Ohlson of the CMU Textiles Lab, I developed a system for incorporating electrical signals from conductive knitted fabrics into live coded visuals, which I presented at the research workshop Hybrid Live Coding Interfaces (see my talk here).  This research involved uncovering the unique electrical signals that can be generated by conductive yarn, as well as mapping those signals meaningfully to visuals. The system allows for both tactile manipulation of signals by messing with the yarn, and manipulation of how the visuals respond to the signals by live coding a compute shader.

I worked with Jinyun Tang at Lawrence Berkeley National Lab to develop novel dynamical systems modelling photosynthesis in chloroplasts. Current state of the art climate models rely on outdated photosynthesis models, which do not account for the dynamic regulatory mechanisms of photosynthesis. Our work culminated in a roadmap for future photosynthesis models.

I perform live visuals for the Pittsburgh based rock band Sommelier under the artist name Friendly Spinach. I have built on the dynamical systems developed in my undergraduate thesis, and extended this work incorporating compute shaders and machine learning.