Programmed Graphism

Research writing at the intersection of computation and graphic design.

(Editorial)

(Research)

(Creative Coding)

(2022)

Editorial layout design featuring bold pixel-inspired typography in large black letters across white pages
Editorial spread with dense black text, creative coding references, and varied type treatments on white background
Editorial design spread featuring a blue perspective grid on white background with minimalist typography
Book spread with black and white photography, diagrams, and explanatory text, held open in natural light
Minimalist editorial spread with systematic numbering layout in bold sans-serif typography on white pages
Book spread highlighting a large typographic quote in black text with emphasis on the word 'surfaces'
Editorial layout with black geometric visuals paired with detailed explanatory text in a structured grid.

(Information)

Programmed Graphism is a research led master’s thesis on how computation and graphic design converge.

The thesis traces computational logic long before computers: grids, proportional systems, rule sets. Case studies, including Stefan Sagmeister’s Casa da Música identity, show how bespoke software can replace off the shelf tools and restore creative control. A final section looks ahead to micro utilities and early AI (writing begun in 2021) as practical tools for designers and their communities.

The book uses a systematic page layout with symmetrical spreads, code style indentations, monospaced footnotes, and Processing generated images set to a single raster ratio. A hybrid display typeface pairs pixel edges with hand drawn curves, and both the cover and the exhibition piece are rendered in Processing. The result is a tangible case for algorithmic thinking in graphic design, past, present, and next.

(Gratitude)

Auriane Preud'homme