Sean and Dan Brennan did not set out to be artists in the traditional sense. Instead, the twin brothers were more technically minded, studying engineering and working with scientific software. Yet, they have found a way to redefine the perception of STEM concepts through visual art. Their startup, Affine Design, sits here at the intersection of art and engineering.

Spun Out of a Hobby

The brothers’ journeys started in similar ways. In graduate school, Sean began to make artwork using highly modified data processing routines. Meanwhile, Dan’s keen interest in emergence phenomena led him to experiment with new ways to bring software to life. Their creative synergy surged in 2020 when they spent the pandemic lockdown together, leading to the beginning of Affine Design. Their mission is simple: to inspire others and foster curiosity by showcasing STEM-based art to the world.

A gallery display of Affine Design’s artwork. (Image courtesy of Affine Design)

A Unique Approach to Art

Affine Design creates high-quality, large-format artwork crafted from custom-built algorithms. “Each algorithm can produce a wide array of graphics and designs and can often be combined with others to create unique visualizations,” explains Sean. Some images can be scaled indefinitely, making them suitable for everything from floor-to-ceiling displays to intricate murals and interactive displays. All the algorithms have some footing in real-world applications and are optimized to showcase the beauty of a certain principle. Some algorithms are statistical in nature, some use trigonometry, Fourier Transforms, diffusion, or folding algorithms, and some imitate crystal growth. Whatever can be mathematically represented is fair game.

Using MATLAB to Create Art

The brothers leverage the vast capabilities of MATLAB, a programming and numeric computing platform for engineering and scientific applications, to bring their art to life. They use the Parallel Computing Toolbox to render their artwork more efficiently. “The ability to switch between CPU and GPU processing allows us to optimize processing workflows and generate real-time simulations,” shares Dan. Other toolboxes help with image creation, opening pathways to new captivating visuals.

An example of one of their algorithms can be seen below. A pseudo-crystalline line propagation algorithm generates lines while following a few basic rules. Lines are seeded and allowed to branch or grow until they intersect with another line or travel off-screen. The first image (“Image 1”) shows a diagnostic tool for checking intersection detections; a blue line is growing and all lines in the vicinity (green lines within the box) are sampled to check if they intersect the blue line. The red line indicates the closest intersecting line to the origin of the blue line, and the pink dot is the intersection location. This process is repeated up to two million times in under a minute, until all lines are inactive. All lines are assigned colors, thicknesses, and other properties based on information from the simulation. The second picture (“Image 2”) shows example data, which includes line parent, line type, line orientation, and line length. Information is compiled and used to format a standard MATLAB line plot. The final result can be seen in the last image (“Image 3”); no post processing outside of MATLAB was performed.

Image 1. (Image courtesy of Affine Design)

Image 2. (Image courtesy of Affine Design)

Image 3. (Image courtesy of Affine Design)

On navigating MATLAB’s capabilities, Dan explains, “The consistent, concise, and thorough documentation helps users employ powerful functions and find new solutions to complex problems.” The team utilizes MATLAB documentation and debugging features to help in the R&D process. Dan adds that the vibrant online community and file exchange have been very helpful in finding answers for any situations not captured in the core MATLAB documentation. Many programming languages have similar features, but few implement all of them as well as MATLAB.

A Nimble Startup Duo

As a startup, Affine Design understands the need to run its operations efficiently. Support from partners is integral. “MathWorks Startup Program has been essential for our development as a small business. We can develop algorithms and get support at an affordable price until we secure additional revenue streams,” says Sean. The founders have established other partnerships with local small businesses in Upstate New York to produce and frame their artwork. The pair does the rest of the work, from initial algorithm design to final shipping.

When asked for their advice to other entrepreneurs, their answer is simple: start working on small tasks every day that bring you closer to your goal. Sean concludes, “Aspiration is equal parts desire and work. Incremental progress, no matter how small, will add up to big changes when completed over many days.”

Sean and Dan are excited about what lies ahead, including exhibiting several upcoming shows this year. As they expand their presence, they remain dedicated to their passion for spurring curiosity and discussion around art.

Sean and Dan Brennan with their branching algorithm based art. (Image courtesy of Affine Design)