Coding Systems
How does Creative Coding relate to the broad term “systems theory”? This question has been the subject of many conversations with my very good friend Dr. Martin Lorenz for many years now. One possible answer has to do with graphic design: Martin’s popular book “Flexible Visual Systems” provides a theoretical foundation for coded design: Code is a language that can describe the appearance and behavior of a visual system. But it turned out that this answer only scratched the surface. In three years of long conversations, online and offline, walking around Barcelona and its suburbs, Martin and I have developed a shared terminology and many exciting ideas. The plan to start a studio has been around for a few years. But the time wasn’t right. Now it is and we are very excited to finally share codingsystems.info with you. So what do we do as Coding Systems?
Research
In our Jam Sessions, we are developing design workflows that challenge the standardized and funneled processes that are set by the big software companies. In our conversations, we discuss the bigger picture of creative coding and systems theory by challenging each other with tough questions.
Development
As a team of creative directors, we work for clients with strong values. For example, in 2024 we helped shape the identity system for a project at the University of Pennsylvania. Next year, we will develop the visual identity for one of Spain’s most charming design festivals. In addition to client work, we also plan to develop products.
Sharing
Both of us are teachers at heart. Sharing our ideas and experiences through talks and workshops (online and offline) will be a main pillar of our work in the future.
Coding Systems has a newsletter and we share a new conversation every two weeks. Check it out here: https://www.patreon.com/c/CodingSystems/posts
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Since 2018, I have published 236 interviews, case studies, and tutorials, along with over 329 lessons in 21 online courses – and there's more to come! If you want to get full access or simply support my work and help keep this platform thriving, please consider supporting me on Patreon. Thank you very much!
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