Event 3 - Discussion with Luke Shannon

Attending the Zoom discussion with Luke Shannon for DESMA 9 was an inspiring dive into the intersection of art, science, and technology. Shannon, a contemporary artist, is known for his generative art practice, which merges hyper-specific code with the unpredictability of chance to create unique visual experiences. He talked about how he uses computer code to make digital images, and then sometimes turns those images into real objects, like laser-cut paper pieces and CNC-milled chairs.


One thing that stood out was how Shannon focuses on both rules and randomness in his work. He showed us a piece with red circles that were generated by an algorithm, but with random elements that made each one unique. He explained that he likes to see what happens when he lets the computer make some decisions, even if it means there are mistakes or surprises


Shannon also shared a project about chairs. He used code to create many different chair designs—some that could actually be built, and some that were impossible. This made me think about what really makes a chair a chair, and how technology can help us ask new questions about everyday things.


He even let us interact with his art by scanning QR codes labeled “RND” (random) and “DIY” (do it yourself), which let us generate our own chair designs. It was fun and made me feel like I can be a part of the creative process.


I would recommend this event to classmates. Shannon’s work is a great example of how art and technology can co-create meaning, and his insights are invaluable for anyone interested in pushing the boundaries of creativity. 

  1. ARTXCODE. “Luke Shannon: Bridging Digital and Physical Art.” ARTXCODE, 2024, www.artxcode.com/interviews/luke-shannon-bridging-digital-and-physical-art. Accessed 3 June 2025.

  2. ARTXCODE. “Seating Arrangements.” ARTXCODE Projects, 2024, www.artxcode.com/projects/seating-arrangements. Accessed 3 June 2025.

  3. Bright Moments Quarterly. “LUKE SHANNON: LIGHTBREAK.” Bright Moments Quarterly, vol. 12, no. 3, 2024, www.brightmoments.com/issue12/luke-shannon-lightbreak. Accessed 3 June 2025.

  4. Right Click Save. “What Is the Future of Generative Media?” Right Click Save, 2023, www.rightclicksave.com/interviews/future-of-generative-media. Accessed 3 June 2025.

  5. Shannon, Luke. “About.” Luke Shannon Official Website, 2025, www.lukeshannon.com/about. Accessed 3 June 2025.

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