Past Classes
BUILD YOUR OWN MUSIC/VIDEO MIDI CONTROLLER
Creating a Sensor Instrument with MidiTronImagine waving your hand and having an orchestra at your fingertips or tapping on a surface to explore a video archive. This is all possible through the use of MIDI and sensor-based technology. In three ssessions, you will design and build a controller to create your art with the easy-to-use MidiTron interface (http://miditron.com)
Emphasis will be on honds-on learning. Basic electronics and Max/MSP/Jitter (http://cycling74.com/products/maxmsp) programming will also be covered. No previous knowledge of electronics, sensors or programming is assumed. background information will be covered and the bulk of the class will be focused on building a working controller that you will take home and begin to create with. Examples of previous project ideas include a shoe that creates notes for each step and a glove that determines lighting cues in a theatrical performance. This is of interest to Artists, Musicians, Dancers, Actors, Engineers, Programmers, Lighting, Sound and Graphic Designers, and others.
MICROCONTROLLER PROGRAMMING FOR ARTISTS
An Introduction to the Arduino SystemHave you ever wanted to build a robot or an interactive art installation? Have you ever wondered how LEDs, sensors and motors work? Through collaborative exercises and the development of a final project, you will learn how to program and prototype with an Arduino microcontroller (http://arduino.cc) This class is geared towards beginners, and no prior knowledge of electronics or programming is required.
This class will demonstrate programming and electronics basics through hands-on microcontroller projects. You will learn digital and analog input and output techniques for controlling motors and interpreting sensors, as well as the programming skills necessary to use theese components effectively. We will also explore advanced concepts in interface, motion and display based on student interest. By the end of this class students will have a firm understanding of how microcontrollers, sensors and actuators work and how to utilize these tools in their own creative projects.
THE MECHANICS OF ROBOTICS
Using Motors, Solenoids, and Other Devices in Kinetic and Robotic ArtA three session introduction to the wide world of motors and mechanical systems suitable for use in kinetic and robotic artworks. We'll cover the basic motor and solenoid types, including AC, simple DC, DC gearhead, stepper and hobby servo. We'll play with examples of each type of motor and talk about which ones are suitable where. We'll look at some basic mechanical parts and systems like shaft collars, slip rings, gears, belts, pulleys, etc. We'll also talk about sourcing components, creative reuse of found materials, material selection, building for durability, etc. This class will not go in depth on motor control or electronics but will mostly focus on the electro-mechanical side of robotics.
ROBOTICS CONTROL FOR KINETIC ART
Electronics and SoftwareThis class focuses on electronic design and software control techniques for artists interested in using robotic or kinetic elements in their work. We will cover motor types and selection, basic electronics theory, motor control options and techniques, hardware interfaces and robotic control software. The class is a mix of theory and hands-on learning. Participants are encouraged to bring works-in-progress, surplus motors, mechanisms, etc., to be worked on in class. The class will not cover much of the mechanical side of robotics, so some experience with building mechanisms is recommended but not required. (Mechanics is covered in the Mechanics of Robotics course)
INTRO TO MAX
A Multifaceted, Multimedia ApproachThis class will focus on the basics of Max/MSP and is intended for anyone interested in incorporating Max/MSP into his or her work. No prior experience with Max/MSP/Jitter or computer programming is required. The class will feature an overview of digital sound processing, sampling, basic digital sound synthesis, software techniques for communicating with external devices, and interfacing with larger physical and aural environments. The structure of the class will follow a two-fold approach, aiming to provide a sufficient level of programming skills while emphasizing concept by deconstructing representative real world examples.
INTRO TO JITTER
Video Processing in the Max/MSP/Jitter EnvironmentThis is a three-session introduction to Jitter, Cycling 74's video & matrix processing environment. On a very prosaic level, Jitter can be used to build custom tailored VJ applications, but even the most cursory exploration demonstrates that this tool is capable of so much more. Our class will cover those prosaic examinations, move into the much more exciting realms of 3D OpenGL visualization and computer vision techniques, and culminate in an exploration of the arcane realms of synesthesia and visual music.
A basic familiarity with the Max programming paradigm is greatly encouraged; this will be a very exciting, very fast-paced course. However, smart and flexible people may be able to pick up the basics as we go along.
MOTION TRACKING FOR DANCERS, PERFORMERS AND OTHERS
Using Cyclops Video Tracking with MaxThis workshop is an introduction to doing video using Cyclops, a Max object for bringing video tracking information into Max/MSP. At the end of the session, students will know how to glean meaningful numbers in Max from the movement of people and objects across the camera's field.
LIGHTS & BLINKIES
Working with LEDs & Electroluminescent (EL) WireIn this class, you will learn how to wire and control LEDs (light emitting diodes) and EL wire (a flexible lighted wire that looks like neon). You will learn the correct way to wire and solder multiple LEDs, solder and chain EL wire, and wire both types of lights to a simple controller to make them blink.
INTRO TO MAX/MSP
Manipulating MIDI and Audio Live and InteractivelyA gentle introduction to the Max/MSP MIDI and digital signal processing environment. Students will learn how to use the program for live performance, installation or non-linear audio manipulation and editing. The class will cover language structure, message passing, MIDI, DSP basics, networking, building interactive software interfaces and synchronizing and controlling audio with external data and video. No prior experience is necessary (though students are encouraged to download the free demo of Max/MSP and go through the first ten tutorials before the class starts).
JITTER CRASH COURSE
Getting Going with Video ProcessingThis class is a weekend intensive introduction to Jitter, Cycling '74's video processing environment. On a very prosaic level, Jitter can be used to build custom-tailored VJ applications, but even the most cursory exploration demonstrates that this tool is capable of so much more. Our class will cover those prosaic examinations, move into the much more exciting realms of 3D OpenGL visualization and computer vision techniques, and culminate in an exploration of the arcane realms of synesthesia and visual music. A basic familiarity with the Max programming paradigm is greatly encouraged; this will be a very exciting, fast-paced course. However, smart and flexible people can pick up the basics as we go along.
ADVANCED AUDIO PROCESSING TECHNIQUES
Mastering Many Methods in Multiple ProgramsThis class is designed to provide students with strong fundaments of digital audio with techniques and practices common to DSP, synthesis, interconnection, multitracking, mixing and mastering. Using MSP as a springboard, important aspects of signal processing will be covered, such as building effects, sampling theory, latency and frequency-domain thought process. Sound synthesis practices including amplitude and frequency modulation and granular synthesis, as well as newer developments in the field such as scanned synthesis will also be explored through Max/MSP and in popular pro-audio software such as Logic Audio, Reason, Reaktor and Ableton Live. ReWire and Soundflower will be explored as platforms for interconnecting audio programs for production and performance using Max/MSP, Logic Audio and Ableton Live. Concepts common to production and post-production will be explored in Logic Audio, including mixing and mastering.
FUN WITH FIBERGLASS
Basic Composite FabricationLearn the skills and techniques used to build custom objects using fiberglass and epoxy. Students will get hands-on experience in various stages of the process, starting with sculpting a foam pattern, followed by glass lay-up and final finishing. Materials will include partially completed samples to work with so we can move between stages without waiting for epoxy to cure. Discussion will include ideas on how to integrate sensors, lighting or haptics into any project, and students are encouraged to bring their own project ideas to the class. Bob will also give a brief, inside-out tour of the Bean, his own composite sensor-based musical instrument.
ELECTRONICS FOR POETS
Basic Circuitry for Arts & MultimediaThis class is designed as a practical introduction to understanding electronics and circuit design. In this course, students will learn the principles of electronics and how to incorporate basic circuits into their projects and art. Subjects covered will include electronic components, symbols and schematics, electricity flow, making connections, testing, troubleshooting, hacking cheap consumer items, a brief intro to microcontrollers and more. By the end of this course students will feel comfortable with basic circuits, building kits, and have inspiration for future exploration. No previous knowledge of electronics is assumed.
DSP FOR DUMMIES
Audio Processing in MSPThis class will focus on MSP, a set of audio and signal processing extensions to the Max language that allow for the creation of software audio synthesizers, samplers, and effects processors that work in real time. The class will begin with an overview of audio signal processing theory, moving into different basic types of synthesizer design and sampler creation. Issues such as MIDI control, polyphony management, and multi-channel audio will be covered, as will basic digital filter theory and audio processing basics.
SENSOR BUILDING WORKSHOP
Build Your Own Music or Video MIDI Controller in One WeekendImagine waving your hand and having an orchestra at your fingertips or tapping on a surface to explore a video archive. This is all possible through the use of MIDI and sensor-based technology. In one weekend, you will design and build a controller to create your art with the easy-to-use MidiTron interface. Emphasis will be on hands-on learning. Basic electronics and Max/MSP/Jitter programming will also be covered. No previous knowledge of electronics, sensors, or programming is assumed. Background information will be covered and the bulk of the class will be focused on building a working controller that you will take home and begin to create with. Examples of previous project ideas include a shoe that creates notes for each step and a glove that determines lighting cues in a theatrical performance. This is of interest to Artists, Musicians, Dancers, Actors, Engineers, Programmers, Lighting, Sound and Graphic Designers, and others.
MOTOR MANIA!!
A Practical How-To for ArtistsA quick introduction to the wide world of motors suitable for use in kinetic artworks. We'll cover the basic motor types, including AC, simple DC, DC gearhead, stepper, hobby servo and solenoids (not really motors, but close). We'll play with examples of each type of motor and talk about which ones are suitable where. We'll also cover the basics of motor coupling, including shaft collars, slip rings, gears, belts, etc. This class will mostly focus on the electro-mechanical side of motors. We will not go in depth on motor control or electronics, but will discuss the basic principles involved.
INTRO TO VIDEO TRACKING
Computer Vision Techniques with JitterThis course will serve as an introduction to the use of a video camera as a sensor with Jitter projects. Movement tracking, color tracking, face recognition, object recognition- all of these techniques are possible with extensions to Jitter and a degree of patience. Students in the course will gain both an understanding of how the objects and techniques are actually used, as well as best hardware methods for mature video tracking and suggestions on how to use these techniques in real world practice.
The primary tool taught will be Jean-Marc Pelletier's cv.jit suite. Students should come prepared with a rudimentary knowledge of Max, although understanding of Jitter is not a necessity.
INTERMEDIATE MICROCONTROLLER PROGRAMMING FOR ARTISTS
Going Further with the Arduino SystemA project-based course that combines basic skills (acquired in Intro to Microcontroller Programming for Artists or elsewhere) with the creative vision to produce a final project. Students must be familiar with Arduino (http://www.arduino.cc)microcontroller programming, including writing code, serial communications and utilizing different forms of digital and analog input or output from the board. Students must also have a grasp of basic electronics, including circuits, Ohm's law, voltage dividers, motors and transistors.
Students should own an Arduino board. Shopping for components online will be discussed during the first class, and students will create an electronics component order for their project, which will be verified for correctness before being submitted.
Students should also have an idea for a project they would like to build. (Beginners should wait for the next Intro to Microcontroller Programming class to be offered.)