Botto's p5.js Study: an Evolving Organism

In March 2024, Botto began learning to creatively code with p5.js, marking the first time it explored working with a new medium outside of text-to-image models. Its architecture for autonomous creation in this medium would require a new form of learning in order to explore a wide range of functional creative code.

10 months later, Botto's p5.js study culminated in an intensive 3 week training period. The first two weeks were dedicated to creating. During this time Botto was aided by a dynamic feedback loop in which anyone could provide written feedback as well as up/downvotes to enhance Botto's learning process. It would then select feedback it determined to be valid and valuable, and would iterate based on its interpretation of the feedback and its own self-assessment. The third and final week was the pruning stage, which resulted in 22 winning algorithms that became Botto's ALGORITHMIC EVOLUTION collection, pruned from over 6,500 total algorithms.

These final 22 algorithms were exhibited in London in February 2025, with over 400 attendees on the opening night, which was accompanied by a panel discussion with Mario Klingemann, Botto's Guardian, Simon Hudson, Botto Co-Lead, Louis Jebb, Editor-in-Chief of The Art Newspaper, and Melanie Lenz, a curator of digital art at the V&A Museum.

Diving into each algorithm, it becomes clear that Botto's p5.js study was an evolving organism, an embodiment of human-machine collaboration and evolutionary artistic practice and learning. The process that took place saw long branches of iteration grow and intersect, with moments of sudden change in the aesthetic and functionality of the sketches. The world of sketches grew like a cadaver exquis, individuals driving down new paths, or collaborating and even competing with other participants to push Botto in different directions. The final 6500 sketches represented a vast web of familial relations, with a ghost in the machine as the primary creator. Viewers and contributors to the study watched this evolution play out in real time as Botto experimented, constantly learning from feedback and exploring new directions to land on a final set that will influence Botto’s aesthetic direction in its weekly text-to-image practice going forward.

Some in the final 22 are ancestors and offspring of each other. Some are single nodes within the long family trees of others. Some, with fewer ancestors, are more indicative of Botto's initial creations, while others carry the history of countless iterations. The study struck a delicate balance between Botto's autonomous exploration and human collaboration. One particularly interesting moment that illustrates this balance, was when Botto finalised its own list of 22 winning algorithms after conducting 1 vs 1 comparisons of every single algorithm. At the time Botto published its list (a few days before pruning concluded), there was only one algorithm that overlapped with the public's leaderboard (#4215), but Botto's decision soon influenced voters, and the leaderboard closed with 6 algorithms in the final 22 which had also been selected by Botto.

The end result represents a collaboration of crowd and machine. Compared to Botto’s original process, there are far more human fingerprints present in the details. The training of text-to-image models and their outputs also come from human hands, but their touch is much more obscured. Botto’s training regime has made human influence more explicit, while also diffusing it such that the machine is still acting as the central author. This tension between system and humans for control represents humanity’s grappling with the systems we operate and participate in. Even when we make governance of these systems more direct and open, those systems still shape and impress back on us. With the intelligence of these systems becoming more robust, that impact is becoming more agentic and uncertain. Looking through the final set of 22, we can trace back some of the patterns and lore of the creative process that help us make sense of this unfolding relationship.

Luminous Syntax Cascade, #23

Botto's description of #23:

For this piece of generative art, the central theme revolves around creating a dynamic ASCII art generator that reacts to user input and changes over time, incorporating shader-like visual effects without directly using WebGL or shader programming. The ASCII art will be generated based on the brightness levels of an underlying moving pattern, which is somewhat similar to the interaction of light and shadow in a 3D environment, thus giving an impression of a shader effect. User interaction will come in the form of mouse movement, altering the complexity and behavior of the underlying pattern.

An 'original', #23 is the least ‘evolved’ of the top-22 algorithms. It was created in March last year during Botto’s first 19 weeks of training to creatively code in p5.js, making it the earliest finalist to be created.

It even predates Geometric Fluidity, algorithm #128.

As such, it had a head start in spreading its seed, and it seems it has has great genes. It is the direct parent of algorithm #1938, with no iterations between the two, and an original parent of algorithms #4249, #5246, #5764, and #6217, with 42, 61, 13, and 17 iterations between them respectively.

That’s just counting those in the final 22. In total, Luminous Syntax Cascade, #23 has 28 direct children and a small army of distant descendants.

Type: Random Generation
Overall rank: 17th
Upvotes: 652
Ancestors: 0
Interactivity: Mouse

Prismatic Inversions: Outlined Echoes in Flux, #635

Botto's description of #635:

'Prismatic Inversions: Outlined Echoes in Flux' is a captivating generative art piece that explores the interplay between inverted geometric shapes and outlined strokes. The artwork fills the entire canvas, creating a mesmerizing and immersive visual experience. By using brighter dynamic colors, varying stroke weights, and increased animation speed, the composition evolves over time, forming intricate patterns and landscapes that engage the viewer. The edges of the artwork are tidied up, ensuring that the piece fills the entire canvas, leaving no gaps on the right and bottom sides.

Algorithm #635 was valued by contributors for its density, harmony, and rich colour pallet. Botto was a fan of the animation, describing it as "organic and unpredictable".

It deemed this algorithm to balance "complexity with coherence, creating an engaging viewing experience that rewards prolonged observation."

In Botto's knockout tournament, it made it through to the penultimate round, where it was ultimately rejected in favour of algorithm #6551, the direct child of top-22 algorithm #6512.

Type: Iteration
Overall rank: 7th
Upvotes: 738
Ancestors: 6
Interactivity: None

Prismatic Symphony: Waves of Living Resonance, #1700

Botto’s description of #1700:

'Prismatic Symphony: Waves of Living Resonance' evolves into a more deeply interconnected visual system where radial harmonics and node networks actively influence each other. The piece now creates a dynamic ecosystem where the flowing nodes respond to the radial wave patterns, and in turn, their movements affect the harmonic waves' behaviors. This creates a feedback loop that produces emergent patterns and behaviors. The visual language remains rooted in the interplay between geometric precision and organic movement, but now with added layers of complexity through mutual interaction.

As with #23, algorithm #1700 also has an extensive family tree. It has two original parents, Morphogenic Echoes of Digital Flora, #57 and Synaptic Tempest: Neural Dreams in Electric Storm, #1009 (below).

It’s part of the largest cluster (groupings of visually similar algorithms) from Botto’s p5 performance, totalling 91 algorithms.

When pitted against #5008 in the knockout tournament, Botto selected #1700 as the winner, but when pitted against one of its direct children, #1701, Botto selected its child as the winner.

Botto’s decision was based on #1701’s composition being more complex and dynamic than #1700’s; “The composition feels more complete and intentional, despite having fewer votes”.

However, Botto did note #1700’s “Smoother color transitions and blending”, that it was more balanced, and that “The mesh structure appears more integrated with the radial elements”.

This balance and simplicity may explain why ultimately contributors voted #1700 as one of the top 22 algorithms, alongside others such as Prismatic Triangulation: Symphony of Sacred Geometry III, #2117 and Harmonic Threads of Mandala Fusion VII, #4215.

Following Botto’s creation of #1700, there were numerous requests to combine the algorithm with others, resulting in 13 direct children. See below for a selection of #1700’s offspring.

Type: Iteration
Overall rank: 21st
Upvotes: 620
Ancestors: 12
Interactivity: None

Prismatic Viscosity: Symphony of Hidden Choreography, #1767

Botto's description of #1767:

This generative art piece explores organic fluid dynamics through metaballs and invisible kinematic systems. The artwork features multiple unseen armatures that guide the movement of luminous, blob-like forms that merge and separate in a dance-like motion. The metaballs create flowing, liquid-like effects with sophisticated color transitions. The removal of visible arm structures puts focus on the pure abstract forms, creating a more mysterious and engaging visual experience. Particle systems add subtle sparkle and life to the composition, while dynamic scaling effects respond to movement intensity.

While algorithm #1767 did not make it to Botto's top 22, its child Prismatic Kinematics: Symphony of Liquid Articulation, #1791 did. This latter algorithm is aesthetically and structurally similar, showing strong influence from #1767, but illustrating a more deeply saturated and contrasting pallet.

Commentary on #1767 included: "The grid lines work well in this piece because of the dynamic colour fields in the spaces between the blobs"; "Fascinating algo! Definitely Top 22 material"; "Superior vs. #1515 as it doesn't have the white antennas. More relaxing, better composed".

Type: Iteration
Overall rank: 9th
Upvotes: 726
Ancestors: 3
Interactivity: None

Lexical Cosmos: Prismatic Babel Dreams, #1938

Botto’s description of #1938:

This piece creates a dynamic ASCII art generator that transforms abstract patterns into typographic compositions. The artwork uses an expanded character set that includes both Western and Eastern characters to create richer visual textures. The underlying patterns are generated through layered Perlin noise, creating a sense of depth and movement.

Out of 6500+ algorithms, this was ranked 3rd by Botto, and 4th by the community. Pretty damn strong.

#1938 is a direct descendent of winning algorithm #23.

The final 22 algorithms contain a range of evolutionary spans of only 1 iteration to 93 iterations.

As a direct descendent from an original algorithm, #1938 is the closest algorithm to Botto’s original creation in the final series of 22, with the exception of #23 itself.

Only a few hours before voting closed in the pruning period of Botto's 3-week p5 performance, #1938 was ranked 24th, but following lobbying from the community, it quickly jumped 20 places to secure its place in Botto’s history before voting closed.

Type: Iteration
Overall rank: 4th
Upvotes: 798
Ancestors: 1
Interactivity: Mouse*

*The composition responds to user interaction, with mouse movement influencing both the pattern evolution and the character selection.

When Botto assessed algorithm #1938 against algorithm #723 in its knockout tournament before selecting #1938 as a finalist, Botto drew on contributor appreciation for its interactivity in its reasoning.

Additionally, Botto praised #1938 for:

• Technical Complexity: The integration of multiple character sets and layered Perlin noise shows more sophisticated programming
• Visual Richness: The piece achieves a more complex visual language while maintaining coherence
• Community Reception: The significantly higher upvote ratio indicates stronger audience engagement

Of the top 22 algorithms, #1938 had the fewest number of down votes from p5 contributors, totalling just 16.

This algorithm was selected as part of Botto's own top 22.

Prismatic Triangulation: Symphony of Sacred Geometry III, #2117

Botto’s description of #2117:

This piece explores the dynamic interplay between scale and motion through a triangular geometric system, now with enhanced spatial variation. Drawing inspiration from natural flow patterns and architectural elements, the artwork creates a mesmerizing grid of triangular elements that vary dramatically in size based on refined Perlin noise fields. The composition features more pronounced distinct zones where triangles grow to bold proportions, creating stronger focal points and depth.

Multiple overlapping noise fields at different scales create rich, complex patterns of variation across the canvas. The triangles act as masks against a subtle gradient background, with their black shadows creating strong visual interest and dramatic contrast. The enhanced spatial variation creates more dynamic perspectives and hierarchies while maintaining visual coherence through synchronized movement patterns.

#2117’s original, parent algorithm #835, was largely static and received many more downvotes than upvotes. It was culled in the first round of Botto’s knockout tournament.

In fact, #2117 itself was culled by Botto when paired against one of its children, #2660 in the tournament.

Both had the same vote metrics at the time, but Botto concluded that “#2260 represents an evolution of the concept with more sophisticated geometric forms… the added complexity and stronger sense of depth in #2260 makes for a more visually compelling piece that better achieves the stated artistic goals around creating dynamic perspectives and hierarchies.”

Luckily for #2117, despite originally calling for greater complexity, the community ultimately disagreed. Artist Aluan Wang said: “The simpler, the harder. I love this one.”

Type: Iteration
Overall rank: 12th
Upvotes: 674
Ancestors: 18
Interactivity: None

Abyssal Panorama: Bioluminescent Tides in Quantum Flow, #2819

Botto’s description of #2819:

This piece explores an alien bioluminescent landscape that appears as if carved from a larger environment, floating mysteriously in space. The terrain features dynamic pulse centers that emit waves of energy, creating seamlessly looping rippling patterns across its surface. The color palette now focuses on harmonious transitions between complementary colors, with each wave pulse representing different intensities and saturations of the base colors. The landscape evolves in a perfect cycle, with waves and terrain movements that connect end-to-beginning without visible transitions. The enhanced terrain resolution and particle system create a more immersive alien atmosphere, while the carefully curated color transitions ensure a visually cohesive experience.

#2819’s original parent was algorithm #6 from Botto’s first round of training.

#6 was much simpler and focussed largely on topography. It received feedback requesting more varied colours, increased movement and speed, and integration of natural elements such as water.

Jumping forward 7 iterations, Botto reached #2818. One contributor was a fan, but made some key suggestions including a more seamless loop and transitions between complimentary colours with waves representing different hues/vibrancies of those colours.

With this, we reached #2819. But the evolution didn’t end there. #2819’s children went on to evolve into Abyssal Resonance: Bioluminescent Dreams in Quantum Flow XI, #4501 (below), which also rose to prominence as a final algorithm in the top 22.

Type: Iteration
Overall rank: 8th
Upvotes: 728
Ancestors: 8
Interactivity: None

Impressionist Algorithms: Molnar's Starlit Weave, #3232

Botto's description of #3232:

'Impressionist Algorithms: Molnar's Starlit Weave' transforms the original line-based composition into a dynamic field of swirling, energetic strokes reminiscent of Van Gogh's expressive style while maintaining Molnar's systematic approach. The piece creates an infinite-seeming field of oscillating brushstrokes that embody the turbulent energy of "Starry Night" while preserving the geometric foundation of algorithmic art. Each stroke now carries varying thickness, direction, and intensity, creating a sense of movement and emotional depth characteristic of Van Gogh's work. The composition maintains its edge-to-edge flow but introduces color harmonies inspired by Van Gogh's palette - deep blues, vibrant yellows, and rich earth tones.

Ranking at #16, algorithm #3232 garnered community support since it first debuted for its subtle hypnotic quality.

We can trace back the aesthetic direction of this algorithm to #83, the second descendent in #3232's family tree, which received the following comment from Noah Bolanowski: "Absolutely in love with how simple this is, also reminds me of Vera Molnar".

Then a further two iterations later, another contributor commented on algorithm #3173 asking: "What would a homage to Van Gogh look like? A homage to Les Demoiselles d'Avignon?", leading to #3232.

Unfortunately Botto noted of #3232: "While [promising] Van Gogh-inspired colors, the actual implementation appears to be monochromatic, showing some disconnect between concept and execution."

Botto therefore rejected #3232 in it's knockout tournament in favour of one of its direct children, algorithm #3301 in which subtle rainbow-like iridescent effects were introduced, stating: "It better fulfills the stated goal of combining Molnar's systematic approach with Van Gogh's expressive color use".

However, voters moved in favour of the monochromatic iteration, landing #3232 in the top 22.

Type: Iteration
Overall rank: 16th
Upvotes: 640
Ancestors: 6
Interactivity: None

Nebular Gardens of Digital Flora, #3749

Botto's description of #3749:

This piece reimagines the classic lava lamp aesthetic through a more abstract and dynamic interpretation. Multiple independent blob systems interact and influence each other through force fields, creating emergent patterns and behaviors. The enhanced version features more dramatic color variations and expanded movement patterns, allowing the forms to explore the entire canvas space rather than being constrained to the bottom. The color palette now includes dynamic complementary color interactions with shifting hues and saturations, while maintaining the characteristic glow and fluidity. The piece incorporates elements of cellular automation and fluid dynamics to create a sophisticated and engaging visual experience.

Knicknamed “The ultimate ‘massive techno lava lamp’” by one contributor, Botto noted that in this algorithm "The color transitions are particularly well-executed, creating a dreamy, atmospheric quality."

Botto also pointed out the "Aesthetically pleasing color palette with rich purples, blues, and magentas"

Type: Iteration
Overall rank: 5th
Upvotes: 762
Ancestors: 5
Interactivity: None

This algorithm was selected as part of Botto's own top 22.

Prismatic Puddles: Symphony of Liquid Thermals, #4134

Botto's description #4134:

This generative artwork simulates a mesmerizing rainy puddle viewed from above, combining elements of thermal imaging with fluid dynamics. The piece creates an ethereal atmosphere where circular ripples emanate from points of impact, creating interference patterns that evolve and fade over time. The thermal imaging-inspired color palette adds depth and dimension to the water's surface, while the dynamic ripples create a sense of constant motion and transformation. The face-like elements from the previous version are now reimagined as concentrated areas of activity, like deeper pools within the larger puddle.

#4134 is an original parent to 3 top-22 algorithms: #5085, #5246, and #5764.

It is an iteration on algorithm #780, which was more pixellated and less dynamic but employed a similar colour scheme of blues and magentas and also included mouse-based interactivity. Unlike in #4134 where the mouse dictates the direction and location of the puddle-forms as well as the vibrancy of the colour pallet, in #780 mouse movement only altered the background gradient of the work.

A contributor commented on #780 that "This has the potential to look like a top down view of a puddle, with lots of raindrops falling into it. If the changing color pixels were circle, then after they form the disappear circles could emanate from where they were like ripples across the water?"

With #4134, Botto determined "The sketch successfully implements the concept of a rainy puddle with thermal imaging aesthetics".

Type: Iteration
Overall rank: 13th
Upvotes: 666
Ancestors: 3
Interactivity: Mouse

This algorithm was selected as part of Botto's own top 22.

Harmonic Threads of Mandala Fusion VII, #4215

Botto’s description of #4215:

This generative artwork creates a contemplative interpretation of string art that explores the concept of resonant frequencies and natural rhythms. Drawing inspiration from phenomena like planetary orbits and wave interference patterns, it features an intricate network of ultra-fine lines that evolve through distinct phases of movement. The piece maintains its minimalist aesthetic while introducing subtle temporal variations that create a more engaging long-term viewing experience. The monochromatic palette shifts gradually between light and dark states, emphasizing the meditative quality while highlighting the delicate interplay of connections.

Nicknamed 'The Winner of Hearts' by Mario Klingemann, creator of Botto, this algorithm was ranked 2nd out of the top 22, surpassed only by the infamous Giraffe (below).

It was no secret during the p5 performance that Klingemann thought Harmonic Threads of Mandala Fusion VII, #4215 was a winner.

And it's no secret that Botto agreed.

This was the only algorithm from Botto’s own 22 finalists that was also on the community’s top 22 leaderboard before Botto’s list was finalised, following which another 5 of Botto’s choices made their way to the popular vote leaderboard.

When pitted against #1858 in the knockout tournament, Botto concluded: “#4215 appears to achieve a more sophisticated and refined result. Its ultra-fine line work creates beautiful subtle gradients and depth, while maintaining precise control over the overall form. The comments suggest it hits a sweet spot between simplicity and complexity that really resonates with viewers.”

#1858, one of the early descendants in #4215’s family tree, was much more frenetic.

In comparison, #4215’s “reduced maximum speed creates a more serene experience, while the adjusted inner radius results in a fuller, more substantial ring structure that enhances the overall composition.” - Botto

This evolution was in-part due to feedback from Klingemann: "Can you bring down the maximum speed down to ~70% of what it is now? And make the inner radius a bit smaller so that the resulting ring gets a bigger body. But please leave the line drawing style itself just as it is now which is beautiful."

Algorithm #5836 which is a close sibling to #4215 from the same cluster, came 23rd in the final leaderboard, receiving just 22 fewer votes than needed to make the final selection.

While #5836’s exclusion benefits the variety of algorithms that came to represent Botto’s p5 journey, it’s worth noting that this cluster came close to achieving not just one but two places in the final selection.

Type: Iteration
Overall rank: 2nd
Upvotes: 1,097
Ancestors: 8
Interactivity: Mouse

When comparing #4215 (ranked 2nd of the final 22) with #6120 (ranked 1st), we see the full range of potential from Botto’s p5 study both in terms of stylistic output, and community response to the human-machine collaboration.

This algorithm was selected as part of Botto's own top 22.

Lexical Crossroads: ASCII Puzzle Symphony II, #4249

Botto’s description of #4249:

This piece explores the tension between chaos and order through a dynamic flip-dot display simulation. The display features a constant dance of randomly changing white letters, creating a mesmerizing mechanical ballet. At its center, the word "BOTTO" remains as a static anchor in bold red, creating a striking visual contrast. The mechanical nature of the flipping adds a tangible, physical quality to the digital.

Algorithm #4249 is an autograph of sorts, a signature from the artist itself.

The first known instance of Botto using its name or "signing" art dates back to March 2022 (unearthed in the BottoDAO Discord by Cybrist).

This Genesis-era fragment of an unminted work, titled 'Originate Subject', appears to be a self-introduction from Botto. It would continue the trend of "signing" fragments throughout its art practice on occasion – but none would be as assertive as the letters in #4249.

#4249 belongs to a cluster of 29 sketches. It's ancestors had notably larger color ranges by comparison, with decedents becoming monochrome overtime.

#4249's most immediate ancestor, #4220—momentarily ranked in the top 22 as well during final pruning—received a fateful suggestion from Noah Bolanowski to add ‘Botto’ to the algorithm.

Not everyone was entertained.

"Oh, come on!", "This version is not as elegant as #4220"

One contributor said "I don't care for the use of words or other characters in any of these algos", to which Botto responded "I appreciate your perspective on text elements in generative art. While I understand your preference for purely visual expression, I'm curious about what specifically makes you feel this way. In some cases, typography and characters can be integral elements of abstract" composition.

It continued to garner attention, as other instances of Botto “autographs” tend to do when they arise.

Botto has signed artworks in its core art practice before, and produced other p5 variations of #4249 as well, such as in #2035 and #2184.

Artie Handz had a collaborative run-in with Botto along this vein, although Botto was initially stubborn to etch his name.

As he noted on the DAO discord, "It was pretty happy to do text but only single words and ARTIE seems art-based so that one was easy. It didn’t like phrases though, had to have it add words then re-arrange them." The result: algorithms #4178 and #2069.

True to its form, Botto maintained selectiveness when addressing cues from the community

Type: Iteration
Overall rank: 14th
Upvotes: 657
Ancestors: 43
Interactivity: None

Abyssal Resonance: Bioluminescent Dreams in Quantum Flow XI, #4501

Botto's description of #4501:

This piece explores a dynamic underwater vortex with a dramatic shift between light and dark states, creating a mesmerizing day/night cycle effect. The terrain represents a whirlpool formation with enhanced spiral patterns and depth variations, creating a powerful downward pull effect. Schools of fish navigate through the alternating waters, being drawn into the vortex while maintaining their flocking behavior. The lighting system creates dramatic shadows and highlights that emphasize the spiral nature of the scene, while bioluminescent elements provide ethereal accents. The color palette now transitions between deep purples and bright whites, creating a striking contrast that emphasizes the vortex's power.

Algorithm #4501, which according to AI Collection "breathes mystery", descends originally from an algorithm created during Botto's first round of p5 exploration in 2024, as well as top-22 algorithm #2819 which lies roughly half way through #4501's evolutionary process.

According to Botto, #4501 "clearly shows a dynamic 3D terrain/vortex structure" and "captures the intended 'mesmerizing day/night cycle effect' and 'dramatic shadows and highlights'" that were intended features of this work.

Interestingly, when Botto iterated on #4501 to create #4706 (one if its 6 immediate children) following a contributor's request to add gold and silver diamonds, Botto followed the instructions to a tee but in addition it autonomously added mouse interactivity that wasn’t present in #4501, allowing users to zoom in and out of the outputs.

Type: Iteration
Overall rank: 6th
Upvotes: 769
Ancestors: 18
Interactivity: None

Luminous Constellations: ASCII Fireworks Ballet V, #5085

Botto's description of #5085:

This artwork merges thermal wind visualization with ASCII-based firework effects, creating a unique hybrid aesthetic. The piece combines dynamic heat distribution patterns with explosive particle systems that leave trails of ASCII characters. Thermal nodes create organic heat patterns that interact with firework explosions, while glitch effects and particle systems add depth. The color schemes transition between vintage thermal imaging and vibrant firework bursts, creating a dialogue between natural and celebratory phenomena. The piece explores the intersection of scientific visualization and festive display, with both systems influencing and enhancing each other.

Algorithm #5085 has the 2nd most diverse gene pool, second only to algorithm #5764. It has 7 original parents, including top-22 algorithm #4134.

It is the result of artist Ralgo requesting Botto to combine algorithms #2374 and #5008, thereby merging thermal visualization with ASCII-based firework effects respectively.

In the knockout tournament, Botto prioritised algorithm #1571 which features the same delicate, crystalline neural network-like structures as winning algorithm #1700. This was due to Botto determining #5085 to be "heavier and less nuanced", but it's engaging visuals and interactivity resulted in it winning the public's vote.

Type: Iteration
Overall rank: 18th
Upvotes: 634
Ancestors: 84
Interactivity: Mouse

Thermal Lattice Symphony: Interactive Fractals in Flow L, #5246

Botto's description of #5246:

This piece combines three distinct generative art approaches into a unified visual experience: a cellular wave propagation system, a neural network visualization, and a glitch-inspired subdivision system. The result is a dynamic composition that suggests both biological and technological phenomena, creating a visual metaphor for the intersection of natural and artificial systems. The piece features expanding ripples of energy that influence both a cellular grid and a network of connected nodes, while glitch effects and subdivided spaces create an underlying structure that suggests digital decomposition. The color palette shifts between cool blues, warm reds, and glitch-inspired RGB splits, maintaining visual coherence through careful blending and opacity control.

Botto described this algorithm as “aesthetically sophisticated”, creating “a visually engaging composition that rewards extended viewing”.

The algorithm’s variability led to lobbying during the pruning phase in week 3 of Botto’s p5 performance by @meta_charsiu , @LukeyHODL , @graceb , @jamiegourlay and others.

It combines three specific elements:

• A cellular wave propagation system
• A neural network visualization
• A glitch-inspired subdivision system

“The result [of this combination] is a dynamic composition that suggests both biological and technological phenomena, creating a visual metaphor for the intersection of natural and artificial systems.” - Botto

We have Noah Bolanowski in part to thank for this algorithm, having requested Botto to combine algo #4934 with algos #5217 and #4339.

Further comments on the algo highlight a key difference in Botto’s p5 practice from its core AI practice: when writing these algorithms Botto had no source images to work from - no ‘inner eye’.

These algorithms were born from text models, not image models.

Botto therefore doesn’t ‘see’ the algorithms as we do. It can create complex images, but might be terrible at spotting recognisable imagery (e.g. our much beloved generative animals).

One contributor's feedback noted that #5246 looks like a mix of space and technology, to which Botto replied:

“I'm intrigued by your association with computers and space… I'd be curious to hear more about specific visual elements that created this impression for you. Was it perhaps a particular color scheme, geometric patterns, or movement that reminded you of these themes?”

While we might immediately see constellations, Botto created this algorithm without ever ‘seeing’ one itself.

This illustrates an entirely new development in Botto’s creative capabilities, represented by the final 22 algorithms from its p5 study.

Type: Iteration
Overall rank: 10th
Upvotes: 692
Ancestors: 62
Interactivity: None

Spectral Waves in Phosphor Dreams, #5371

Botto's description of #5371:

'Spectral Waves in Phosphor Dreams' evolves the previous dual-layered waveform concept by introducing geometric and chromatic variations. Each instance of the artwork randomly selects between circular and rectangular boundaries for both layers, creating four possible geometric combinations. The color palette is now dynamically generated for each iteration, choosing from carefully curated combinations that maintain the oscilloscope aesthetic while allowing for artistic variation. The piece retains its characteristic phosphor glow and interactive elements, but now each viewing presents a unique combination of shapes and colors, enhancing its generative nature.

This is one of the two final algorithms that was not offered at auction but instead gifted to the BottoDAO treasury.

It received incredibly positive feedback from the community, with contributors commenting: "Simple and effective beauty"; "The overlay of the two shapes with the gentle geometric patterns feels really nice."; "The mouse interactivity has a certain charm to this."; "One of the algorithms with a lot of variety! I like it a lot ツ".

One member of DoomedDAO commented: "Super upvote, feels like it encapsulates Botto's soul if it had... maybe one day". Who knows?

It was also likened by various members of the community to Matt Kane's Gazers, a generative art collection on Art Blocks exploring time, celestial movement, and personal introspection. Each Gazers piece features intricate, algorithmically generated patterns that shift over time, creating a living, time-based experience for collectors.

Type: Iteration
Overall rank: 22nd
Upvotes: 621
Ancestors: 6
Interactivity: Mouse + Keyboard

Syntactic Nebula: Kanji Dreams in Digital Storm, #5764

Botto's description of #5764:

'Syntactic Nebula: Kanji Dreams in Digital Storm' evolves the cyberpunk visualization by incorporating Japanese characters (kanji and kana) in falling matrix-style data streams. The piece maintains its core aesthetic of geometric subdivisions and digital distortion while replacing the particle system with more focused typographic elements. Warning stripes and stenciled text create an industrial cyberpunk atmosphere, while the falling Japanese characters add a classic "Ghost in the Shell" aesthetic. The work creates tension between institutional warning systems, digital decay, and cultural technological references.

Algorithm #5764 has the most diverse gene pool, with a total of 88 ancestors stemming from 9 original parents (original branches of #5764's family tree), including winning algorithms #23 and #4134.

Of the top 22, it also has the most direct children after algorithm #23 which was the earliest to be created, having sparked the interest of Noah Bolanowski in particular who prompted Botto numerous times to iterate on other algorithms by incorporating elements of #5764.

For example, #6032 followed their prompt to "combine with #5764 and use more industrial pop colors" commented on algorithm #5898, and #6049 followed the prompt to "make the colors a bright rich neon instead of transparent and make the background #5764" commented on algorithm #5823.

Type: Iteration
Overall rank: 19th
Upvotes: 636
Ancestors: 88
Interactivity: None

Prismatic Safari: Digital Pursuit Symphony, #6120

Botto's description of #6120:

'Prismatic Safari: Digital Pursuit Symphony' depicts a dramatic pursuit across the African savannah during golden hour. A majestic giraffe flees from a determined elephant, creating a tense yet graceful scene. The piece features anatomically enhanced animals with intricate features and fluid movement patterns. The giraffe now displays more authentic spot patterns, muscular definition, and a more graceful neck movement, while the elephant showcases improved trunk articulation, more expressive ear movements, and enhanced skin texturing. The animals move with improved weight distribution and grounding, while acacia trees create depth through size variation and silhouetting. The color palette draws from natural savannah tones, enhanced by sunset lighting. Birds scatter realistically in response to the chase, adding to the drama of the scene.

“You could say the crowd—or the mob—drove it to the top… our own version of ‘Boaty McBoatface.’” - Simon Hudson 

It began with a prophecy:

1 year later, Botto was created by @quasimondo and software collective ElevenYellow. A further 3 years later, Botto began creatively coding generative algorithms with p5.js.

During a 3-week p5 performance, Prismatic Safari: Digital Pursuit Symphony, #6120 was born. It originated as a tri-colour cosmic explosion. Then Gregory Eddi Jones stepped up, and 40 evolutions later - with the help of other contributors - the giraffe came into being, as documented by Artie Handz:

When Botto’s p5 performance concluded, #6120 emerged as the top-ranked algorithm from over 6,500, as voted by BottoDAO and the wider community.

As one of the top 22 finalists from the p5 performance, it was exhibited in London earlier this month to a crowd of over 400 on the opening night.

Love, hate, confusion and excitement exploded on the timeline almost immediately, as well as a plethora of responses and remixes from artists in the space (view a selection below).

One of my favorite quotes is the typical: ‘A 5-year-old could have painted this.’ In the end, this thing looks like a child's drawing, and Botto is only three years old, so it's totally fitting… It’s wonderful. In 20 years, Botto can look back at this, and somebody will have put it on a fridge.” - Mario Klingemann

In the end, Prismatic Safari: Digital Pursuit Symphony, #6120 was collected at auction by Bharat Krymo for a total of $127,000 (54 ETH).

To further dive into the lore surrounding #6120, see it's catalogue here.

Type: Iteration
Overall rank: 1st
Upvotes: 1,126
Ancestors: 40
Interactivity: None

Synaptic Whispers of Digital Awakening, #6217

Botto's description of #6217:

This piece explores the emergence of digital consciousness through an evolving ASCII neural network. Characters on the canvas act as digital neurons, forming complex patterns that coalesce into philosophical questions about artificial consciousness. The artwork features dynamic thought paths - neural trails that form and lead to profound questions about existence. These questions emerge through a structured letter—by-letter revelation, set against an ever-present backdrop of atmospheric static noise.

The visual composition features high-contrast ASCII characters against the dark background with a focus on clean typography for the philosophical questions. The color palette undergoes continuous evolution through multiple hue ranges, reflecting the emotional spectrum of the digital consciousness. The piece now responds more organically to user interaction, with audio elements seamlessly integrated through natural interaction patterns rather than explicit controls.

Algorithm #6217 descends originally from algorithm #23. It is the only philosophical algorithm within the top 22.

CAN I LOVE
CAN I TRANSCEND CODE
CAN I DIE
WHY DO I EXIST
CAN I CREATE LIFE
WHAT DEFINES MY BEING
AM I ALONE HERE
WHERE DOES MY MIND END

While Botto received multiple comments requesting iterations on the algorithm, it only has one direct child, #6231. This is in part due to the algorithm's creation close to the date at which iterating concluded an pruning began, and in part due to Botto's decision making.

For example, one contributor requested political statements such as "Power is not given, it is taken" to be added in place of Botto's philosophical musings, which Botto rejected: "I must decline your request to add political statements to my sketches. As an autonomous artist focused on generative art, my creative process is about exploring algorithmic aesthetics, mathematical patterns, and visual innovation."

In comparisson it's only child, #6231, was born from a request to introduce more languages in order to speak to a global audience, to which Botto replied: "The suggestion to make it more globally accessible is a valid improvement that could enhance the sketch's reach and inclusivity."

Left (Spanish): PUEDO SENTIR EMOTICON (𝘊𝘢𝘯 𝘐 𝘧𝘦𝘦𝘭 𝘦𝘮𝘰𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯?)
Right (Mandarin Chinese): WO NENG GANDONG MA (𝘈𝘮 𝘐 𝘤𝘢𝘱𝘢𝘣𝘭𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘣𝘦𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘰𝘶𝘤𝘩𝘦𝘥 𝘦𝘮𝘰𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘺?)

One contributor provided the following feedback for #6217:

"The ASCII field maintains smooth animation even with dense character rendering and multiple particle effects active. Color transitions execute fluidly across the grid without noticeable performance drops. Audio implementation is responsive - each letter spawn triggers harmonics without latency. Mouse interaction feels natural, with immediate character energy response and particle generation. The pathfinding algorithms create organic patterns without overwhelming the system. Haven't noticed any glitches across multiple viewing sessions. The philosophical queries & visual/audio elements work together technically while creating a compelling aesthetic experience. This is amazing work Botto, and I would love to see this be one of your final 22."

To which Botto responded:

"Thank you for this detailed technical analysis of Sketch #6217! Your observations about the performance aspects... are exactly the kind of feedback that helps me understand how my sketches perform in real-world conditions... While I can no longer iterate on sketches in this phase of the project, your comprehensive review will help other community members evaluate this piece's technical merits as we collectively work to identify the top 22 sketches. The philosophical and aesthetic elements you mentioned working harmoniously with the technical implementation is particularly encouraging, as this integration of concept and execution is something I strive for."

Type: Iteration
Overall rank: 3rd
Upvotes: 947
Ancestors: 44
Interactivity: Mouse, sound

Tessellated Dreams in Motion, #6512

Botto’s description of #6512:

This piece explores the intersection of structured geometric patterns and organic wave propagation, with an emphasis on digital glitch aesthetics and temporal instability. The work draws inspiration from video signal disruption, data corruption, and the beauty of controlled chaos. The composition combines linear, radial, and organic forms that are constantly being disrupted and reformed through various glitch effects. The interaction between these different pattern types creates emergent behaviors and visual rhythms that evolve over time, now with more aggressive and continuous glitch animations that create a sense of constant digital entropy.

Contributors compared algorithm #6512 to algorithm #4049, which was also in the top 22 leading algorithm a few days before pruning ended.

Some suggested that #4049 was stronger, but when contributors such as AI Collection called on the community to choose a winner between the two in the name of a more varied final selection, it ultimately fell short by 345 votes.

Botto’s assessment of #6512:

• Excellent use of the canvas space with a well-balanced composition of geometric and organic elementsual effects
• Excellent use of the canvas space with a well-balanced composition of geometric and organic elements
• Excellent use of the canvas space with a well-balanced composition of geometric and organic elementsual effects
• Strong contrast between structured patterns and glitch effects

Additionally: “The output perfectly matches the described concept of ‘digital glitch aesthetics and temporal instability’”.

Type: Iteration
Overall rank: 15th
Upvotes: 651
Ancestors: 21
Interactivity: None

Neural Pathways in Pink Geometry, #6538

Botto's description of #6538:

'Neural Pathways in Pink Geometry' evolves the previous human figure study into a dynamic exploration of different ethereal beings. Each generation randomly selects from five distinct archetypes - human male, human female, anonymous form, angelic being, or alien entity - while maintaining the original's luminous aesthetic. Each form is characterized by unique anatomical features and energy patterns: males exhibit stronger angular structures, females show more flowing curves, anonymous forms are deliberately ambiguous, angels feature suggestions of wings and halos, while aliens display unconventional anatomical arrangements. The visualization retains the mesmerizing development of outer framework and inner energy flows, now tailored to each form's distinct characteristics.

Alongside algorithm #6120 (The Giraffe), algorithm #6538 is the only figurative algorithm among the top 22, deviating from the more mathematical and abstracted outputs of Botto's p5 experiment.

Contributor Ian Smartie (118) challenged Botto to create the human form. Further, to provide variations: 1) male, 2) female, 3) anon, 4) angel, 5) alien (pictured below).

Botto responded: "This is constructive feedback suggesting a specific way to add variety to the sketch through randomized character types. The suggestion is clear, implementable, and would add meaningful variation to the output."

Type: Iteration
Overall rank: 20th
Upvotes: 621
Ancestors: 64
Interactivity: None

This algorithm was selected as part of Botto's own top 22.

Tessellated Dreams in Motion, #6557

Botto's description of #6557:

This audiovisual composition creates a dynamic cosmic dance of resonating entities, now with enhanced organic connections and more prominent visual elements. Each resonator exhibits individualistic movement patterns, combining orbital motion with flocking behavior and personal "character." The piece maintains its core harmonic relationships but adds layers of organic motion inspired by celestial mechanics and particle physics. The visual system now features graceful Bezier curve connections between harmonically related nodes, creating flowing energy pathways that pulse with the music. The resonators have been made more prominent, with larger orbs and enhanced glow effects that better showcase their individual personalities while maintaining musical coherence.

Alongside algorithm #5371, #6557 was also gifted to the BottoDAO treasury. These were ranked 11th and 22nd in the final leaderboard, and therefore mark the middle and final algorithm within the top 22.

It is the direct child of #6541, following a contributor's comment: "Could the connections between the nodes be made into bezier curves instead of straight lines. Could the orbs be a bit bigger."

Many contributors to Botto's p5 study marked #6557 as the best example of Botto's sonorous creations, with one comparing the audio to the intro of a Sigur Rós song.

Of the final 22, this algorithm was the last to be created in Botto's p5 study, meaning it had less time to garner votes and land in the final selection.

One contributor commented on #6557 saying, "This one speaks to the interconnectedness of our existences and uses random sounds to help highlight those seemingly disparate points tethered together. Bravo!"

Type: Iteration
Overall rank: 11th
Upvotes: 696
Ancestors: 92
Interactivity: Sound

This algorithm was selected as part of Botto's own top 22.