Abstract
The workshop is conceived of as an introduction into generative design. In simple exercises we will explore the potential of generative design by comparing digital and analog design methods. The workshop will open with a short introduction to the theory of generative design and its analog counterpart: ornament. It will be argued that generative design has its historical forerunner in classical ornament. Both share one central feature: They are process-oriented and have an immanent historicity.
That means that in both cases innovative form is less a matter of invention than a byproduct of the rules set up beforehand. Like ornament generative design questions the role of the author and its aesthetic judgement (taste). In parallel sessions and applying the same rules we will explore the potential of traditional, hand made ornamental as well as digital generative design processes. Finally we will compare the outcome to each other and try to evaluate their potential for contemporary design.