Algorithmic Color Methods of Media Arts

Abstract

The paper describes a framework for systematically exploring the RGB color model (RGB color cube) for generating color palettes based on six algorithmic methods divided into two categories: Primitive and Derivative. The Primitive method is comprised of the RGB Linear method, the RGB Planar method, and the RGB Cuboid method. The Derivative method includes the RGB Multi-Linear method, the RGB Multi-Planar method, and the RGB Multi-Cuboid method. On a practical level, the goal of the paper is to introduce a systems approach to the notion of creating and applying algorithms to create a variety of color combinations and palettes in the field of Media Arts. The framework was implemented as a color design approach to the process of producing color palettes in the context of Media Arts while exploring the intersection of mathematical principles of geometry, color, and code. An investigation was conducted into how algorithmic color palettes generated from the methods correlate to culture, history, and other artistic practices. An application of the methodology and a discussion about how the framework can continue to evolve and be applied to other research areas and fields of applications, such as digital color literacy education, are presented.