Generative Art Timeline · Chapter 3: Analog Era (1950s)
1950
Ben Laposky Makes the First Oscillons

Ben Laposky produces the first graphics generated by electronic machines, a critical step on the way to the digitization of generative art with proto-computer art.
Using an oscilloscope in 1950, Ben F. Laposky originated the concept of graphics generated by electronic machines, creating his now legendary oscillons. These “electrical compositions” are regarded as among the first electronic graphics.
Text by Peter Bauman. Generative Art Timeline, Le Random.
Sources
People
Movements
computer art, generative art, Oscillographic Art
Filed under
- Ideas
- Analog Computer Art, generative art
- Technologies
- computer art, computer graphics, oscilloscope
- People
- Ben Laposky
- Works
- Electronic Art, Oscillons
- Other subjects
- Laposky
Echoes across time
- 2013 · Jerobeam Fenderson and Hansi3D Begin Oscilloscope Music
- 1970 · Generación Automática de Formas Plásticas Exhibition at the Centro de Cálculo of the University of Madrid
- 1981 · Persepol by David Em
Le Random editorials
Le Random podcast
- Timeline Ch 3—Analog Era (1950s) with Georg Bak — listen with transcript on Le Random (10 Aug 2023, 65 min). Chapter 3’s episode. Apple Podcasts · Spotify