1 of 1

Write now Article Tools

A simple, fool-proof, kids to adult use FREE fractal generator can be downloaded on the web. TIERAZON V29 is a Win32 fractal program written by Stephen C. Ferguson. I began using it several years ago and it is by far, my favourite program for creating true fractals.

For me, creating fractals is like mining for gold or treasures... you click through image after image, zooming and changing your perspective, until, if you are lucky, or hit on something so beautiful and symbolic it takes your breath away! There is something meditational about it, and addictive. I have seen hyperactive kids zone out (calm down!) with this program!

What ARE fractals? They are mathematic formulas that have been given a colour and position on a two dimensional form. Fractals are found in nature - the closer you look, the further the pattern increases in complexity - a fern leaf, the coast of a continenet, are famous fractal images in nature. I am not a scientist, I am an artist and my explanation is pure 'laymans' terms!'

After you have downloaded and extracted Tierazon from http://home.houston.rr.com/fer gusonsc/Tierazon-v29/ open it. Go to the "window" button on the top right and click on "size". Choose the 320 size. I find this is large enough to see detail in the image, but not too large to take forever transforming.

Now, click on the "Draw" button on the top left. Pick one randomly.

Now it is time to play. Click on "Filters" and "Colour", randomly selecting one of the numbers. Do wait for the image to load before trying another one. (There is an "undo" button at the very bottom of "Draw" but it only undo's once.) Sometimes "FD Options" works, sometimes it doesn't - after a while you get a feeling for when this option is available. That sounds bizarre in the world of mathematics! Also, sometimes re-applying "Draw" to the image you have can create something startling.

Once you get to something that is interesting and you think you have found a minefield with a few places you want to look closer, click on the tenth button down under the F. It's a double rectangle image. This creates a new window so you can go back to the previous fractal and go somewhere else later on.

Remember to save what you like. You can also change the size to the next one up to see it larger. You do need to resize it back down again as that setting will work for the next one you create, which can be a slow process as the larger the fractal, the more time it takes for it to appear.

This is a basic guideline for making Fractals using this program and you will be able to create unique pieces of beauty and bizarre worlds that remind you of something from a sci-fi novel. You will develop patience and a sense of exploration and joy - like fishing - you just might catch that amazing image that you will never forget!

Of course, this is only the tip of this programme, but it is enough to keep you busily engaged for hours being creative! Enjoy!

Learn more about this author, Donni Hakanson.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about How to make fractals using Tierazon?
We want to hear your view. Write now!