Acrylic on paper, 19 x 25 in. Multiple.

Obligate Symbionts is a series of paintings created with a robotic pen plotter. The robot follows instructions produced by a generative algorithm that creates a unique output each time it runs.

The algorithm I wrote for this series generates ribbon-like forms that flow around invisible eddy currents scattered across the canvas. Thinner forms succumb to the currents. Thicker forms break free.

While working on this series, I kept thinking about all the mutual codependencies that make life work. The tiny microbes that live in our guts. A warm embrace during a time of need.

A selection of paintings from this series is currently available for purchase at The Compound Gallery in Emeryville, CA.