“Moiré Pattern” discusses the captivating visual phenomenon known as moiré patterns, which emerge when two or more repetitive structures overlap. While often considered unwanted artifacts in design and printing, moiré patterns are being reevaluated for their unique aesthetics and functional properties across art, science, and technology.

What is a Moiré Pattern?

Moiré patterns occur when grids or lines with similar but not identical spacing intersect. This interference creates large-scale patterns that appear to move or shimmer as the viewpoint or overlap changes. This phenomenon can be observed, for example, when window screens overlap or in patterns displayed on digital screens.

Origins and Scientific Background of Moiré

The term “moiré” originates from a French word meaning “wavy,” referring to the rippling effect seen in silk fabrics subjected to heat or pressure. Scientifically, moiré patterns result from wave interference, where the peaks and troughs of repeating structures amplify or cancel each other.

Applications of Moiré Patterns

Art and Design

Artists and designers draw inspiration from moiré patterns. By overlaying patterns, they create visual depth and motion, producing dynamic visuals that engage viewers. This approach is particularly popular in digital and interactive media.

  • Digital Art: In digital art, moiré patterns are generated through programming to emphasize visual rhythm and dynamism. Tools like Processing and openFrameworks allow artists to adjust parameters and enjoy real-time changes in moiré patterns. These technologies also enable the creation of interactive installations.
  • Pen Plotter Art: Using pen plotters, artists can achieve unique effects with moiré patterns. Overlaying multiple lines or grids enables complex visual expressions with an analog feel. This technique is particularly effective when materializing digitally generated designs into physical artworks. Pen plotters excel at rendering delicate lines, precisely depicting the intricacies of moiré patterns.

Science and Technology

  • Optical Testing: Moiré patterns help amplify lens or surface distortions, aiding in detecting minute irregularities.
  • Strain Analysis: Engineers use moiré techniques to measure material deformation.
  • Display Technology: Understanding moiré effects has improved high-resolution display designs, reducing unwanted interference.

Everyday Observations

Moiré patterns appear in unexpected places, such as fences or clothing fabrics, reminding us of their ubiquity.

Reevaluating Moiré Patterns as Aesthetic Choices

Traditionally considered nuisances in photography and printing, moiré patterns are now being reassessed for their aesthetic value. I have recently explored visualizing sound using moiré patterns. By programming generative designs that not only represent sound waves but also interact with them, I create dynamic and ever-changing artworks. Additionally, by using pen plotters to render these designs as physical pieces, I enjoy the fusion of digital and analog.

Trying Out Moiré Patterns

Creating moiré patterns can start simply by overlaying two transparent materials with grids or stripes. For digital creators, software like Processing, p5.js, and openFrameworks can easily generate and manipulate these patterns programmatically. Using a pen plotter allows for transferring digitally created moiré patterns onto paper, exploring new artistic possibilities.

Conclusion

Moiré patterns exemplify unexpected beauty arising from interaction and interference. As tools for scientific discovery and sources of artistic inspiration, these patterns encourage us to delve deeper into the complex interplay between structure and randomness.

Recommended Book

Generative Design: Visualize, Program, and Create with Processing
-Harmut Bohnacker, Benedikt Groß, Julia Laub

This book includes methods for creating Lissajous figures, along with various visual projects using Processing. It’s a great resource for exploring visual programming.

 Generative Design: Visualize, Program, and Create with Processing
（Harmut Bohnacker, Benedikt Groß, Julia Laub）
Publication date／ August 22, 2012
Print length／472 pages
Publisher／Princeton Architectural Press
Language／English

BGD_SOUNDS (barbe_generative_diary SOUNDS)

barbe_generative_diary SOUNDS will start sharing and selling a variety of field recordings collected for use in my artwork “Sound Visualization” experiments. All sounds are royalty-free.

Link / BGD_SOUNDS on bandcamp