Digital Sorcery

Sculpting light, sound and code

Work with projections, interactive sound, electronics and generative code as storytelling materials.

One hour, one day or one week. Audience, activities and arrangements are confirmed by enquiry.

Overview

In a world where technology is rapidly transforming artistic expression, Digital Sorcery is designed to equip creative professionals with the tools to craft immersive, interactive experiences. Whether you're a visual artist, designer, musician, or media professional, this course will teach you how to blend AI, electronics, interactive sound, projections and generative code to create groundbreaking digital works.

Audience and prerequisites

Educators & Institutions seeking to provide cutting-edge, interdisciplinary learning experiences. Artists & Designers looking to expand their practice with interactive technology. Musicians & Sound Artists exploring live sound-reactive environments. Media Professionals & Filmmakers eager to innovate in digital storytelling. Technologists & Programmers who want to experiment with generative visuals and live coding.

Starting experience and any preparation are agreed with the host, so the selected activities fit the group.

What participants explore and make

Projection Mapping & LED-Based Installations – Learn how to sculpt light and space using digital projection and lighting techniques.
Interactive Sound Design – Work with pre-recorded sound, musical instruments, and AI-driven generative audio.
Generative Art & Live Coding – Create real-time digital experiences with p5.js, TouchDesigner, Hydra, and Sonic Pi.
AI in the Creative Domain – Explore how machine learning can assist in the creative process and to help you find work .
Storytelling with Technology – Build compelling narratives using interactive media and digital environments.

Choose a format

One hour

A focused introduction with selected ideas, a guided activity and discussion.

One day

Guided exercises, discussion and time to apply a selected set of ideas.

One week

Extended exploration, iterative practice and reflection around an agreed project or set of questions.

These are offered formats. Scope and activities are agreed for the audience; the complete outline below is a reference, not a promise to cover every topic in the shortest format.

Practical requirements

Before confirming, agree the group’s language, accessibility requirements, setting, group size and available equipment. Device, internet and software needs depend on the selected activities and must be checked with the host. A tool named in an outline does not imply a paid account or licence is included.

Discuss the group and format

Tools and materials to discuss

Software: P5.js, TouchDesigner, Hydra, Sonic Pi

Hardware: Projector, Webcam, MIDI controller

Additional Resources: Access to online tools and digital learning labs.

Learning outline

Module 1: Rethinking Art & Technology

Explore the evolution of interactive media & digital art. Dive into global case studies of innovative projects. Engage in reflective discussions that challenge traditional art paradigms.

Module 2: Tools of Digital Sorcery

Discover projection mapping, LED installations, and generative audio. Master live coding with p5.js, TouchDesigner, Python, Hydra, and Sonic Pi. Integrate AI creativity using Teachable Machines in interactive art.

Module 3: Designing Immersive Experiences

Learn sensory storytelling and how interactive media evokes emotions. Analyze groundbreaking new media installations for design insights. Create immersive storyboards and proposals to shape future experiences.

Module 4: Building & Prototyping

Develop both pre-rendered and real-time generated content. Balance interactivity with robustness while tackling production challenges. Explore funding opportunities and practical applications through hands-on labs.

Module 5: Showcase & Beyond

Present final projects and share interactive installations with peers. Receive constructive feedback and industry insights for growth. Build a professional portfolio and explore exciting career paths in creative tech.

Additional learning aims

These are intended learning aims from the outline, not measured outcomes.

Create a Portfolio-Ready Digital Art Piece – A fully realized interactive media project in your medium.

Master Creative Coding & Generative Media – Gain proficiency in real-time visual and sound design tools.

Understand AI’s Role in Creative Workflows – Learn how machine learning can amplify artistic expression.

Find a Global Network of Innovators – Discover professionals and institutions working at the forefront of digital art.