Slovak folk patterns | GANs
This work aims to challenge traditional pattern design and showcase the possbilities of using GAN models* as tools in the process of creating traditional Slovak patterns.
{AI training in RunwayML, dataset preparation & manipulation, data presentation, bookmaking, Risoprinting, pattern making, knitting}
* a Generative Adversarial Network is a machine learning model that generates new outputs which resemble the initial input data used for training the model.
(2022)
[book showcase]
As an attempt to revitalise the implementation of Slovak patterns in modern craft, this project considers a recontextualisation of the visual qualities and origins of traditional ornaments. Using an AI model that generates new ornamental designs I imagine the use of digital tools to attract the younger generation in order to preserve an important part of Slovak art history and culture. I furthermore attempt to challenge the traditional creation of patterns to one more inline with our ever-evolving tech heavy future. The hope is to spark interest in the younger generation, who tend to lose interest in the outdated techniques and practices.
[book series]
This book trilogy contains a collection of Artificial Intelligence generated outcomes using a Generative Adversarial Network (GAN) model trained on a selection of patterns coming from different regions of Slovakia. Each book showcases an ornament that constructs traditional patterns - branches & leaves, flowers and hearts. These GAN outputs can be used to construct new complex pattern designs. The books have a vintage design with embossed ornaments in the cover for distinguishing them. Each book contains two parts. Part one contains the GAN generated ornaments, while the second part has images of the patterns used as training data with specified origins and location in the Slovak region.
[knit pieces]
[design systems]
The knit pieces are applied samples of pattern systems created with the use of the generated outcomes in the book trilogy. The way they are hung up above shows the page numbers for the ornamnets in the books. These were made using a knitting machine and hand embroidered by myself. There are three samples in the knitted medium visualising the way the books can be used to make various patterns. These samples help showcase how the books can be directly used to make modern recontextualised pieces while it also enabled me to practice a traditional way of knitting on a vintage Bond Elite knitting machine with a machine made visual subject.
[GAN output concertina book details & setup]
To present the project for my graduate showcase I made Risoprinted concertina books containing the three sets of GAN made ornaments which were hung up. The print was done as a duotone with the two most used colour combinations I found in the training data of Slovak patterns - blue/red.
/process
[example patterns used to create training datasets]
[excerpt of training dataset]
[GAN training for one of final datasets]
