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Recursiveness

Recursion is a method in computer science and mathematics that involves a function calling itself. It is commonly used to describe objects with specific repeating patterns, such as fractals, plants in nature, and the Fibonacci sequence. In this section, we extend the concept of recursion to include “recursiveness,” where works exhibit self-replication in both their imagery and logic, and generate diversity through random intervention. Based on the complexity of their logic, we have chosen three common expressions:

1. Fractal Trees

The classic recursion expression is when a single line branches out into multiple lines until it forms a tree. Here, we showcase “Little Trees” and “Shape Observation,” which are themed around trees and corals respectively, as well as “CHROMATLAS, Vol. 7,” which exhibits a different but structurally similar pattern.

Shape Observation by eziraros
Little Trees by Brian Gawlik
CHROMATLAS, Vol. 7 by Aleksandra Jovanić

2. Subdivision

If “fractal tree” is the recursion application for lines, then extending it to the plane or three-dimensional space can produce multiple subspaces. Variations in the density of segmentation can create contrasting tension and rich details. This category displays “Returns, Vintage QR Codes,” “Labyrinth,” “Megalopolis,” “Recursive and Blocks,” “(de)construction,” and “Divide by Circle” for segmented planes, as well as “Plottable Thousands,” which incorporates packing algorithms.

Vintage QR Codes by Chris Barber
Returns by Leander Herzog
Labyrinth by Yi-Wen LIN
(de)construction by 0xma
Recursive and Blocks by new yellow
Divide by Circle by KilledByAPixel
Plottable Thousands by greweb

3. Cellular Automata

“Cellular automata” is a discrete model that uses a unit square to simulate the interactions between individual units. It can be used to model natural phenomena, cell replication processes, and more. “Nil” uses this model to generate textures within blocks, “Muraka” uses it to simulate the dynamic growth of coral cells, and “adrift” uses a similar principle to generate cities.

Nil by agoston nagy
Muraka by bejuco
by bejuco adrift by Jacek Markusiewicz

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