Talks - James Schmitz: Creative Coding with py5, the Python version of Processing

Py5 is a Python creative coding framework that provides Processing functionality while integrating with the Python ecosystem and libraries

Key features include:

• Built-in support for NumPy arrays, Pillow images, and other Python libraries
• Multiple programming modes (static, imported, module, class)
• Performance optimization and helpful error messages
• Integration with Jupyter notebooks through Py5bot kernel

Uses Java under the hood but abstracts it away so users only work with Python code and syntax

Excellent for:

• Data visualization
• Creative coding and generative art
• Education and teaching programming concepts
• Working with 2D/3D graphics
• Processing webcam, images and real-time data

Main benefits:

• Low barrier to entry for beginners
• Familiar Python syntax and ecosystem
• Built-in tools for performance profiling
• Focus on creative ideas rather than technical implementation
• Helpful error messages and documentation

Current development goals:

• Growing the community and educational resources
• Expanding Python library integrations
• Future PyScript implementation to remove Java dependency
• Additional tools for creative workflows

Started during COVID-19 lockdown in 2020, building on Processing’s long history of making coding accessible to artists and designers