Neon Mirage

Posted: November 6, 2026 | Author: Wenxi Zhu | Filed under: Uncategorized |Leave a comment

For this project, I created an interactive video synthesizer in TouchDesigner called Neon Mirage. My inspiration came from kaleidoscope toys and neon lights. I wanted to create a digital kaleidoscope with patterns, colors, and movements that could constantly change. This was my first time using a MIDI controller to control visuals in real time. I found it very interesting and also learned some new skills through this experience.

Technical Setup and Visual Design

I mainly used GLSL shaders and TOP operators in TouchDesigner to create the visuals. The main kaleidoscope is made of symmetrical patterns and flowing neon lines. I also created a separate layer of geometric fragments to make the patterns look more like moving pieces of glass. Another important part of my project is the particle system. The particles move in a spiral and spread outward, creating a glowing effect. I used feedback to give them light trails and make their movements feel smoother.

For the interaction, I used a Korg nanoKONTROL2 MIDI controller. Different faders control rotation speed, liquid distortion, fragment movement, fragment density, particle effects, and colors.

The color control includes five different palettes: pink and cyan, yellow and orange, green and blue, silver and white, and black and gold. I wanted the colors to change gradually instead of suddenly switching between presets.

Design Process and Challenges

I think that besides making the controls fun to use, finding a balance between visual complexity and clarity was also an important part of this project.

At first, I mainly focused on adding more patterns, colors, and effects because I thought they would make the kaleidoscope more interesting. However, when I combined too many effects, the screen became very crowded. The neon lines and glass fragments sometimes overlapped too much, making it difficult to see their individual shapes. I realized that adding more visual elements does not always make the final work better.

I also had problems with blurry particles and changing the original square composition into a widescreen format. During the process, I spent a lot of time adjusting shaders, testing MIDI controls, and comparing different visual effects. I tried to keep the details I liked while improving the parts that might distract the audience.

Performance and Reflection

Unlike creating a finished animation, using a video synthesizer requires me to constantly make adjustments based on the music while the visuals are running. I found this process very interesting. I needed to think about when to change the colors, when to add more particles, and when to keep the visuals simple. I also found that controlling several faders at the same time was not easy.

Designing a visual instrument is different from creating a beautiful image. I needed to consider not only how the visuals looked, but also whether I could easily control these effects during a live performance.

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