Josef Pelz

Josef Pelz, a German digital artist and creative coder, explores emergent behaviour in generative systems. His mathematics and computer science background strongly influences his practice, based on custom algorithms to create dynamic works. 

Leveraging the power of parallel computing, Pelz develops real-time simulations that allow for immediate reactions to code changes and sensory input. This interactivity enhances the playfulness and depth of his exploration of parametric spaces.  

Pelz draws inspiration from physics, emerging behaviour, and algorithms, merging his passion for problem-solving with aesthetics. The artist stresses the importance of gathering insights from the work in a different field: lately, he's been inspired by fungal/slime mould growth. 

Josef Pelz’s generative visuals have been featured in stage design projects for the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Alicia Keys, and Afterlife. 

In 2021 and 2022, Pelz contributed to the 'Life of a Neuron' exhibition, a collaboration between Artechouse and the Society for Neuroscience in Washington DC and NYC. He designed and developed the 'Aging and Dying' section of the show, adapting his simulation tools to model the decay of a human neuron in a groundbreaking 3D representation.