Gaussian Quadratic by A. Michael Noll

One of the most iconic works of early computer art, Noll’s Gaussian Quadratic is a computer-generated artwork consisting of a series of connected lines generated by mathematical algorithms, Noll created while working at Bell Labs.

The piece was one of the first artworks to be created entirely by a computer, demonstrating the potential of computers as a tool for artistic expression and inspiring future generations of artists to experiment with computer-generated imagery.

Noll himself describes it:

“Ninety-nine lines connect 100 points whose horizontal coordinates are Gaussian. Vertical coordinates increase according to a quadratic equation. As a point reaches the top, it is reflected to the bottom to continue its rise. The exact proportions of this pattern were chosen from many other examples. This particular proportion is vaguely similar to the painting Ma Jolie by Picasso.”

Derived from Noll’s 1962 experiments, the piece today is in the collection of the V&A Museum as well as Spalter Digital. The piece would go on to be displayed at the first public exhibition of computer art in the United States, at New York’s Howard Wise Gallery in 1965 as well as Cybernetic Serendipity (1968).

Listen to Peter Bauman’s interview with A. Michael Noll (transcript) where he mentions Gaussian Quadratic as his personal favorite piece.

Image is copyrighted by A. Michael Noll and courtesy of The Anne and Michael Spalter Digital Art Collection.