Artists are increasingly using coding to create art and many art programs have a specialization in coding and art. Some coding art is dynamic - the art is in the movement. Coding art can also be generative - different each time. Some writers suggest that coding and art-making have the same skill set: problem-solving and design. Below are some ideas to get you started with coding in your art class.
Geometrical Art
This activity is primarily reinforcement for geometric shape knowledge. It also encourages the development of mathematical thinking and modeling skills, and provides an opportunity to apply shape knowledge in a hands-on manner. Here is a sample project.
Extension: Students can remix Student project 1 to
Draw the same spiral from outside to inside.
Draw a spiral star.
Explore a sample lesson plan to introduce this activity in an art classroom.
Coding Concepts: Variables, Loops
Animation
Students will create an animation composed of multiple frames. Here is a sample project.
Explore a sample lesson plan to introduce this activity in an art classroom.
Extension: Students can remix sample project. to
Create a dance
Move the sprite using the arrow keys
Coding Concepts: Loops
Greeting Cards
Students create a greeting card to send to a friend or family member. In this project, students are encouraged to use their creativity and imagination. Here is a sample project.
Explore a sample lesson plan to introduce this activity in an art classroom.
Extension: Students can remix sample project to
Create shapes
Add sounds to movements in the card
Coding Concepts: User input
Interactive Art
Students build an interactive project that makes famous paintings talk when clicked. Here is a sample project.
Explore a sample lesson plan to introduce this activity in an art classroom.
Extension: Students can remix sample project. to
Tell a story between subjects in the artwork
Create Easter Eggs with sprites
Coding Concepts: Loops