Compositions in Code: The Art of Processing and p5.js

Opening Reception and Panel Discussion on March 6, 7:00 p.m. RSVP here.

Processing has played a central role in shaping the public perception of code as a visual art form. Launched in 2001 by Casey Reas and Ben Fry, this accessible, artist-friendly, open-source programming environment made creating art with code less intimidating. Offering a simplified, sketchbook-like environment that provides immediate visual feedback, Processing remains influential 25 years later. More recently, the p5.js library, created by Lauren Lee McCarthy, has adapted these core ideas to JavaScript, which has become a popular medium for outputs meant to be shared online. 

Processing and p5.js’ impact extend well beyond its technical merits, reshaping how code can be viewed as a tool for creating art. By lowering barriers to access, Processing has empowered multiple generations of artists to explore generative, interactive, and algorithmic practices. This shift has redefined not only artistic production but also art education. In parallel, p5.js combines Processing’s experimental spirit with the broad reach of the internet without requiring additional browser plug-ins. Together, these tools have become essential reference points in contemporary art discourse, while aiding teachers, researchers, and students in understanding the creative potential of code. 

This exhibition presents a series of diptychs, pairing three Processing early adopters—Marius Watz, LIA, and Robert Hodgin—with artists working regularly with p5.js: Aleksandra Jovanić, Sarah Ridgley, and Melissa Wiederrecht. Early adopters and their p5.js counterparts were involved in the curatorial process for each diptych, highlighting works from 2006–2025 that represent the importance of code as a fine art medium. At times throughout the series, Processing is transcoded to p5.js—a common practice today for artists working with Processing who want to share their work online. This demonstrates technical adaptability and highlights the intergenerational exchange of ideas, as well as the community’s commitment to continuously adapt and reach broader audiences. 

Installation dates:

Marius Watz & Aleksandra Jovanić: March 6–May 4, 2025

Mint your own fragment of Marius Watz’s MoMI Exploder here.

Mint your own fragment of Aleksandra Jovanić’s Returns here.

LIA & Sarah Ridgley: May 8–June 29, 2025

Robert Hodgin & Melissa Wiederrecht: July 3–August 24, 2025

Compositions in Code: The Art of Processing and p5.js is the fourth series of media art installations for MoMI’s Schlosser Media Wall presented in partnership with the Tezos Foundation. Additional support for Compositions in Code is provided by the Processing Foundation.