Usagi Workshop 4/5/25
Workshop Goals:
Demystify the process of working with robotic tools and provide a practical, hands-on introduction to using robots in art. Live demos will be run throughout the workshop.
Introduce relevant software, hardware, and online resources.
Share examples and inspire creative experimentation. Encourage exploration of variables and share thoughts about the impact of artistic choices.
I. Introductions & Overview of Workshop
II. Inspiration & Concepts
Share Examples of ‘Robotic Art’ and Group Discussion
Drawing robots, kinetic sculpture, generative art
Discuss concepts, techniques, and artistic intentions
III. Technical Exploration & Experimentation
Variables: Hardware, Software, Media, Technique
Walk through common variables and discuss impact of decisions
Layering, Speed, Human Touch, Experimentation, Failure, Repetition
IV. Embracing Unpredictability and Finding Verticals to Explore
V. Wrap-up & Next Steps
Resources:
A curated list of code and resources for computer-controlled drawing machines
Bantam Tools - NY-based developer of leading pen plotting hardware and software
Inkscape and the AxiDraw plugin - Free software to help draw and plot with AxiDraw