Sometimes, I know exactly what I want my generative art to be.
But usually, I'm lost. I stare at Emacs for a long time, not knowing what to do. I get frustrated, like I'll never come up with anything good.
Here's a different way to think about it.
I find that when I'm frustrated, it's because I'm jumping into code without having a real idea. It's hard to code something without knowing what I'm coding.
So first come up with an inspiring idea, then start coding.
I start with these categories, and generate ready-to-code ideas from them.
1. Juxtaposition
Place two different things next to each other. Some examples:
One color fighting another.
One hundred tiny dots and one big one.
2. Minimalism/maximalism
Take something as simple or complex as you can go.
A single loop.
Ten thousand dots of the same size.
3. A physical process
You'll find happy accidents when you are inspired by physical things.
Close your eyes. Look at the afterimages you see.
Pick up a pencil and paper. Doodle some shapes.
4. The real world
The real world is full of randomness. Use it!
Clouds floating across the sky.
Be inspired by the wind.
5. Abstract concepts
Pick an adjective, idea, or phrase. What would that look like?
Fade into black.
Winding.