Hi everyone!
Perhaps this topic has already been discussed here or in other forums, but I’d like to hear more people’s thoughts.
I think that it’s a common question: is it “fair” to use tools created by others, or is it better to do everything myself?
I know that if someone wants to build everything from scratch, the best way is probably to use C++, OpenGL, Vulkan, etc. But I don’t want to go that far back.
Years ago, I used openFrameworks. I’m not a “pro” developer or a math expert, but I remember that my favorite projects came from a period of research where I tried to understand things at a deeper level within openFrameworks. Sometimes I even developed my own very small libraries to reuse later.
And I remember when I did some exhibitions in the past that people call me “artist” and sometimes somebody thought that I was an engeneer… but none of them was true. I simply used openFramework to have fun and do what I like.
Now I’ve moved to TouchDesigner and I find it marvelous how easily I can do things thanks to a graphic interface that allows anyone to change parameters and mix things quickly and without stress. It’s great!
But here is the point: often I see amazing tools by many creators and I want to understand how they are made. I have some background knowledge and I’ve been reading up lately, so the general approach or techniques are more or less clear to me. However, I’m not technical enough to do everything from zero, or at least, it would take too much time.
On the other hand, if I use a tool or framework created by someone else, I sometimes feel like I’m missing out on a part of the “game”, the part that is often also fun. But I know my limits, and sometimes the fun part becomes too tedious.
Today I’ve come to the conclusion that it’s ok to use tools made by others. Perhaps one day, when I have more experience, I’ll create my own “setups.” In the meantime, I can use others’ tools while also studying how they work in the background and try to recreate them from zero, just for fun.
My point is that while beauty often comes from deep research and study, working at a “top level” (meaning using existing tools) can also lead to beautiful and fun ideas.
So, I’m curious: what do you think?