The Journal of Patterns Recognised and Experimental Pattern Cultivation

The Journal for Patterns Recognised is a new PDF journal project dedicated to the study of distorted pattern recognition – it looks to be yet another fine project sprouting from the Socialfiction fraternity.

‘the long history of research into speculative modes of knowledge practised by writers, artists and revolutionaries of all sorts, methods for experimental pattern recognition have always been important (i.e. cut-ups, scrying, generative walks, hallucinatory substances). The Journal for Patterns Recognised seeks to widen the understanding of these methodologies.’

Dataisnature is forever interested in patterns of all kinds from the obvious optical art of Vasarely to the random chaotic rhythms concocted by a slighty out of kilter electric Indian cooling fan! Patterns are everywhere, but not always obvious. Often occluded, they are perceptible to a trained eye/ear from a certain discipline. The probable reason I hear the rhythmic patterns in the chaotic cooling fan is because of my adoration for trance dervish drumming music! Most common of all, are patterns found in nature – from spiral galaxies in logarithmic formation to shells covered in Cellular Automata!

Doing a recreational web derive via the pattern recognition conduit I found out how to grow patterns in a laboratory! Using an electrolytic cell – experiment 13 explains how to grow your own fractal copper electrode position diffusion aggregate! This experiment reminds me of another art experiment called The Electrochemical Glass at mimetics.com

‘the tutorials draw from examples of current research in biology, chemistry, earth science and physics. For each experimental system presented, students study scientific models of microscopic processes that bring about the formation of the macroscopic pattern observed. These models share a common theme: random behaviour at a microscopic scale can lead to the formation of patterns at the macroscopic scale. These models are introduced using simple hands-on demonstrations–sometimes using props such as a checkerboard set and coins to flip–and are then explored further using computer simulation. Every simulation provides opportunities to explore the macroscopic consequences of changes in the system’s behaviour at the microscopic level.’

And surely Deleuze & Guattari would have enjoyed experiment 20 – Building a Rhizotron and Germinating Seeds. ‘A rhizotron is a clear-walled chamber through which one can observe roots as they grow ‘. There are also a set of java applets and downloadables to go with the experiements