What is Isadora?
Isadora is a flexible and intuitive visual programming language designed specifically for artists and performers looking to incorporate interactive elements and realtime effects into their work. Developed by Mark Coniglio and first released in the year 2000, Isadora aims to provide a platform for creative coding that does not require traditional software development skills.
At the core of Isadora is its modular patch-based workflow that enables users to link together various building blocks called actors using virtual wires in order to define complex interactive behaviors. An extensive library of actors offers features ranging from computer vision techniques to MIDI/OSC connectivity to media playback and manipulation.
By connecting these modular actors into interactive patch networks called scenes, Isadora gives artists and performers the ability to quickly generate intricate interactive systems to control video, lighting, sound, stage mechanics, and more. Everything happens in real-time so changes to the patch result in immediate altered behavior.
While Isadora's flexibility makes it a complex and potentially intimidating application, its visual approach means that many without formal programming training are able to make use of its capabilities with some patience and practice. Active community forums also provide peer assistance.
Some common applications of Isadora include interactive dance, theater, and music performances, interactive museum displays, reactive projected visuals for concerts and festivals, and experimental installation art. It interoperates well with other creative coding eco-systems like openFrameworks and Processing.