Approaches to Generative Design as a Project-Based and Artisanal Practice

Abstract

Generative Art emerged in the 1960s, at a time when the term was used to denote the automatic production of art by means of an algorithm. The purpose of this article is to establish a theoretical approach to the concept of generative design from the experience derived from the arts. In this regard, the present article puts forward a theoretical framework that encompasses generative systems, generative art and generative design, drawing upon empirical research conducted with artisans in Pasto, Colombia. Among its main conclusions, the article argues that the algorithms used in generative design are integrated into the creation process, but not into the production process, leading to the generation of unique and singular products. Furthermore, it demonstrated that these algorithms contribute to the ubiquity of both commercial and heritage objects.