This week, we have some gorgeous generative art that breaks from the usual AI art conversation, a brand for an exuberant new energy program in the UK, and a funny cat video put in the perfect context.

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Generative art that breaks the AI mold and stands on its own

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Gustavo Muñoz (@bustavo), an artist and software developer, describes their art as “generative code.” Using Processing, they write code that creates unique and dynamic digital visuals that he then translates to physical applications through CNC. Typically in black and white, his work invokes an undeniably digital aesthetic that, when applied with pen and ink on paper, creates a satisfying contrast. While computer-generated art in this form has existed for some time, it has special meaning in today’s GenAI landscape. Where AI images are exhaustingly derivative, Muñoz is writing the “creative code” to generate work that is uniquely his own. Watch the artwork in action here.

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A big STEP’s forward: tomorrow’s energy gets a future-forward face

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In light of the Jaguar rebrand, the conversation in branding has shifted to the question, “what should a brand in this industry look like so people recognize it instantly?” Many are countering with, “why must it conform to those expectations at all?” This challenge to traditional thinking feels especially fitting for STEP, the UK’s government-funded fusion energy initiative aiming to scale a consistent fusion energy supply.

At the heart of the brand is a striking logo that fuses a spark—a nod to ignition and innovation—with the letter S, anchoring the program in both its mission and name. The aesthetic draws on Y2K futurism, with a playfully curved typeface and an electric pink-and-navy color palette that commands attention. By breaking conventions and embracing bold creativity, STEP’s brand doesn’t just represent a new energy solution—it embodies the future it’s striving to create. So much more to dive into here.

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ASUS’ latest cat-named monitor

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Naming conventions for PC monitors have been meme-worthy in the PC components sphere since the dawn of 1080p. ASUS leaned into the joke when teasing its next monitor, the “PG27UCDM,” with a (since-deleted) video on Instagram. In the clip, a cat steps across a keyboard during a work-chat conversation, typing a random string of letters that becomes the product’s name. The cat then knocks over a coffee mug and dashes away.

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The video, later shared on Reddit under the title Asus’ response to the Monitor naming fiasco, sparked laughs, with one user commenting, “Well, that fixed my complaints.” It’s a hilarious and authentic way to connect with their audience — and proof that, even in 2024, we’re all still suckers for a good cat video.