Repetition of a point or element is a source of elementary rhythm and a means of heightening inner vibration

Kandinsky states that repetition is a potent means of heightening inner vibration and simultaneously a source of elementary rhythm — which is itself a means to the attainment of elementary harmony in every form of art. A single point on the basic plane has its own absolute sound; two points of the same type create repetition and a second-order sound (the relation between them). Multiple points build a storm of sounds that grows more complex with each addition. This is directly applicable to particle systems, step-sequenced visuals, and any looped generative element: repetition itself is compositional force, not mere texture.

Examples

In Hydra: osc(8,0,0).out() — the repeated bands are a visual repetition that creates elementary rhythm. The rhythm quickens or slows with frequency changes. In p5.js, a for-loop placing identical circles at equal intervals creates a regular visual rhythm; varying spacing introduces polyrhythm.

Assessment

Generate a field of identical repeated marks in a live-coding environment. Then (1) vary their spacing to create uneven rhythm, (2) vary their size to create crescendo, (3) describe the ‘storm of sounds’ at each stage using Kandinsky’s vocabulary.