Bridge art and algorithms in this hands-on Python course. Use swarm intelligence to create stunning generative visuals and interactive systems inspired by nature. Perfect for artists exploring code and developers seeking creative innovation.
Learning modes and locations may be different depending on the course start date. Please check the location of your chosen course and read our guide to learning modes and locations to help you choose the right course for you.
Start Date:19 Apr 2027
End Date:24 May 2027
Mon (Evening):18:30 - 21:30
Choose either online or in-person
Location: Hybrid (choose either online or in-person)
Please note: We offer a wide variety of financial support to make courses affordable. Just visit our online Help Centre for more information on a range of topics including fees, online learning and FAQs.
This course operates at the dynamic intersection of art, nature, and technology. We'll explore swarm intelligence - the fascinating decentralized logic seen in flocking birds or ant trails - and harness its power using Python.
You'll learn to translate these organic principles into code, creating stunning emergent visuals, complex simulations, and interactive digital experiences. It’s designed for artists ready to embrace code as a powerful expressive medium, and for technologists eager to apply their skills to generative creativity.
What will we cover?
We'll dive into the core principles of swarm intelligence and agent-based modeling. You'll learn to implement foundational algorithms (like boids for flocking, ant colony optimization for pathfinding) within the Python ecosystem. We'll apply these concepts directly to generating complex visual art, designing interactive systems, and creating real-time simulations. We'll also engage critically with concepts like emergence, complexity theory, and the unique aesthetics born from algorithmic processes.
What will I achieve? By the end of this course you should be able to...
By the end, you'll master key swarm intelligence concepts and implement them effectively using Python. You'll be able to design and develop agent-based systems that produce unique generative art and interactive behaviours. You will gain practical confidence in creative coding, learn to debug and refine complex simulations, and articulate how decentralized, algorithmic approaches unlock novel forms of digital expression and design.
What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?
This course is designed for individuals with either a creative or a technical background looking to bridge disciplines. Crucially, foundational Python knowledge (variables, loops, functions, basic data structures) or a dedicated willingness to quickly acquire it is required. We’ll build from these basics, but the pace suits those comfortable engaging with code. It’s ideal for artists/designers venturing into algorithmic art, or developers/technologists exploring creative computation.
How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?
Learning is highly interactive, centred around hands-on labs, live Python coding demonstrations, practical exercises, and iterative project development. We blend foundational theory with immediate application and creative experimentation. Active participation, collaborative problem-solving, and peer feedback are encouraged. While core learning happens in sessions, optional challenges and self-directed project refinement between classes are recommended to solidify your skills and push your creative boundaries.
Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?
There are no additional costs. All software used on the course is free to download and use and your tutor will recommend where to find this software. Unfortunately due to the range of hardware and software used by students at home, the College is unable to provide advice on installation issues.
When I've finished, what course can I do next?
City Lit offers a variety of progression courses in this subject area. Please click hereto view our courses.
Disclaimer: Use of Third-Party Software This course might require you to either use your own personal account or create an account for the purposes of this course. City Lit cannot accept any responsibility for any failings of the third party or provide technical support. Whilst using the software you will be responsible for abiding by the providers terms and conditions and maintaining your own work.
Ergi Mira is a London-based software engineer and tutor specialising in artificial intelligence, computer vision, and data-driven systems. He holds a BEng (Hons) in Software Engineering from the University of Greenwich, graduating with First-Class Honours and receiving the Best Project Award for his work on embedded real-time AI systems. Ergi’s background combines academic research with industry practice. He has worked as a Software Consultant and IT Service Desk Analyst, developing intelligent software across automation, IoT, and data analytics. His projects include FastAPI/React applications, network-monitoring agents, and AI-driven predictive systems deployed on the edge using Raspberry Pi and Hailo accelerators. At City Lit, Ergi focuses on applying AI in real-world contexts such as healthcare, sustainability, and creative technology. He teaches courses in Natural Language Processing, Computer Vision, Python for Automation, and Data Analysis, blending live coding, guided labs, and project-based learning to help students transform theory into practical, impactful applications.
Please note: We reserve the right to change our tutors from those advertised. This happens rarely, but if it does, we are unable to refund fees due to this. Our tutors may have different teaching styles; however we guarantee a consistent quality of teaching in all our courses.
product
https://www.citylit.ac.uk/creative-coding-with-swarm-intelligence2282167Creative coding with SWARM intelligencehttps://www.citylit.ac.uk/media/catalog/category/Technology_1.jpg319319GBPInStock/Courses/Courses/Business, marketing & technology/Courses/Business, marketing & technology/AI & technology/Technology/Courses/Business, marketing & technology/AI & technology2285121115871352612285121113526<p>Bridge art and algorithms in this hands-on Python course. Use swarm intelligence to create stunning generative visuals and interactive systems inspired by nature. Perfect for artists exploring code and developers seeking creative innovation.</p>003043636Creative coding with SWARM intelligence319319https://www.citylit.ac.uk/media/catalog/category/Technology_1.jpgInStockEveningMonHybrid (choose either online or in-person)Available courses5-10 weeksWeekday2027-04-19T00:00:00+00:00Beginners, Some experienceApr 2027Business, marketing & technologyCMART50319319Creative coding with SWARM intelligence255207319Ergi Miracreative-coding-with-swarm-intelligence/cmart50-2627<p>Bridge art and algorithms in this hands-on Python course. Use swarm intelligence to create stunning generative visuals and interactive systems inspired by nature. Perfect for artists exploring code and developers seeking creative innovation.</p>0000-Available|2027-04-19 00:00:00<p>This course operates at the dynamic intersection of art, nature, and technology. We'll explore swarm intelligence - the fascinating decentralized logic seen in flocking birds or ant trails - and harness its power using Python. </p><p>You'll learn to translate these organic principles into code, creating stunning emergent visuals, complex simulations, and interactive digital experiences. It’s designed for artists ready to embrace code as a powerful expressive medium, and for technologists eager to apply their skills to generative creativity.</p><p>Bridge art and algorithms in this hands-on Python course. Use swarm intelligence to create stunning generative visuals and interactive systems inspired by nature. Perfect for artists exploring code and developers seeking creative innovation.</p><p>We'll dive into the core principles of swarm intelligence and agent-based modeling. You'll learn to implement foundational algorithms (like boids for flocking, ant colony optimization for pathfinding) within the Python ecosystem. We'll apply these concepts directly to generating complex visual art, designing interactive systems, and creating real-time simulations. We'll also engage critically with concepts like emergence, complexity theory, and the unique aesthetics born from algorithmic processes.</p><p>By the end, you'll master key swarm intelligence concepts and implement them effectively using Python. You'll be able to design and develop agent-based systems that produce unique generative art and interactive behaviours. You will gain practical confidence in creative coding, learn to debug and refine complex simulations, and articulate how decentralized, algorithmic approaches unlock novel forms of digital expression and design.</p><p>This course is designed for individuals with <em>either</em> a creative <em>or</em> a technical background looking to bridge disciplines. <strong>Crucially, foundational Python knowledge (variables, loops, functions, basic data structures) or a dedicated willingness to quickly acquire it is required.</strong> We’ll build from these basics, but the pace suits those comfortable engaging with code. It’s ideal for artists/designers venturing into algorithmic art, or developers/technologists exploring creative computation.</p><p>Learning is highly interactive, centred around hands-on labs, live Python coding demonstrations, practical exercises, and iterative project development. We blend foundational theory with immediate application and creative experimentation. Active participation, collaborative problem-solving, and peer feedback are encouraged. While core learning happens in sessions, optional challenges and self-directed project refinement between classes are recommended to solidify your skills and push your creative boundaries.</p><p>There are no additional costs. All software used on the course is free to download and use and your tutor will recommend where to find this software. Unfortunately due to the range of hardware and software used by students at home, the College is unable to provide advice on installation issues.</p><p>City Lit offers a variety of progression courses in this subject area. Please click <a href="https://www.citylit.ac.uk/media/wysiwyg/pdf/2627_New_Programming_Courses.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u>here</u> </a>to view our courses.</p><p>Disclaimer: Use of Third-Party Software<br>This course might require you to either use your own personal account or create an account for the purposes of this course. City Lit cannot accept any responsibility for any failings of the third party or provide technical support. Whilst using the software you will be responsible for abiding by the providers terms and conditions and maintaining your own work.</p>AI & technologyTechnologyvirtual255319207CMART50NONEMon19/04/27 - 24/05/2718:30 - 21:3018:3021:305 sessions (over 6 weeks)55-10 weeksEveningWeekdayHybridHybrid (choose either online or in-person)Ergi MiraBeginners, Some experienceAvailable courses2027-04-19T00:00:00+00:00Apr 2027Business, marketing & technology319319Creative coding with SWARM intelligencecreative-coding-with-swarm-intelligence/cmart50-2627<p>Bridge art and algorithms in this hands-on Python course. Use swarm intelligence to create stunning generative visuals and interactive systems inspired by nature. Perfect for artists exploring code and developers seeking creative innovation.</p>0000-Available|2027-04-19 00:00:00<p>This course operates at the dynamic intersection of art, nature, and technology. We'll explore swarm intelligence - the fascinating decentralized logic seen in flocking birds or ant trails - and harness its power using Python. </p><p>You'll learn to translate these organic principles into code, creating stunning emergent visuals, complex simulations, and interactive digital experiences. It’s designed for artists ready to embrace code as a powerful expressive medium, and for technologists eager to apply their skills to generative creativity.</p><p>Bridge art and algorithms in this hands-on Python course. Use swarm intelligence to create stunning generative visuals and interactive systems inspired by nature. Perfect for artists exploring code and developers seeking creative innovation.</p><p>We'll dive into the core principles of swarm intelligence and agent-based modeling. You'll learn to implement foundational algorithms (like boids for flocking, ant colony optimization for pathfinding) within the Python ecosystem. We'll apply these concepts directly to generating complex visual art, designing interactive systems, and creating real-time simulations. We'll also engage critically with concepts like emergence, complexity theory, and the unique aesthetics born from algorithmic processes.</p><p>By the end, you'll master key swarm intelligence concepts and implement them effectively using Python. You'll be able to design and develop agent-based systems that produce unique generative art and interactive behaviours. You will gain practical confidence in creative coding, learn to debug and refine complex simulations, and articulate how decentralized, algorithmic approaches unlock novel forms of digital expression and design.</p><p>This course is designed for individuals with <em>either</em> a creative <em>or</em> a technical background looking to bridge disciplines. <strong>Crucially, foundational Python knowledge (variables, loops, functions, basic data structures) or a dedicated willingness to quickly acquire it is required.</strong> We’ll build from these basics, but the pace suits those comfortable engaging with code. It’s ideal for artists/designers venturing into algorithmic art, or developers/technologists exploring creative computation.</p><p>Learning is highly interactive, centred around hands-on labs, live Python coding demonstrations, practical exercises, and iterative project development. We blend foundational theory with immediate application and creative experimentation. Active participation, collaborative problem-solving, and peer feedback are encouraged. While core learning happens in sessions, optional challenges and self-directed project refinement between classes are recommended to solidify your skills and push your creative boundaries.</p><p>There are no additional costs. All software used on the course is free to download and use and your tutor will recommend where to find this software. Unfortunately due to the range of hardware and software used by students at home, the College is unable to provide advice on installation issues.</p><p>City Lit offers a variety of progression courses in this subject area. Please click <a href="https://www.citylit.ac.uk/media/wysiwyg/pdf/2627_New_Programming_Courses.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><u>here</u> </a>to view our courses.</p><p>Disclaimer: Use of Third-Party Software<br>This course might require you to either use your own personal account or create an account for the purposes of this course. City Lit cannot accept any responsibility for any failings of the third party or provide technical support. Whilst using the software you will be responsible for abiding by the providers terms and conditions and maintaining your own work.</p>AI & technologyTechnologyconfigurable
