Artificial Natures is the creative technology studio of Aaron Westre. We build custom software and hardware applications for creative people.
We work with artists, designers, architects and other professionals to build technology solutions that enhance their capacity to create, communicate and collaborate. Our core specialization is interactive 3D visualization and ideation tools. Our passion is enhancing creative capacity through digital technology.
Aaron Westre is a software developer, designer, artist, author and educator working at the intersection of creativity and technology. He has an undergraduate degree in Anthropology and a masters degree in Architecture. He founded Artificial Natures in 2009. Recently he co-founded R5VR, a software company that builds virtual reality tools for the design industry.
Aaron worked for 4 years as a researcher in the University of Minnesota's Virtual Reality Design Lab. He also teaches there in the School of Architecture. Design Games for Architecture, his book that teaches designers how to build creative applications inspired by video games, was released in 2014.
Aaron's research, teaching and artistic interests revolve around developing new technologies for creative expression.
Researcher/Software Developer. Virtual Reality Design Lab, College of Design, University of Minnesota. Minneapolis, MN.
Principal. Artificial Natures, a creative technology studio serving architects, designers and artists. Minneapolis, MN.
TensileDraw (Software Review) Fabric Architecture. Jan/Feb. Industrial Fabrics Association International.
ForTen 3000 (Software Review) Fabric Architecture. Jan/Feb. Industrial Fabrics Association International.
Complexity Machine 1: Drawing 3D Form with Behavioral Simulation (Masters Thesis). University of Minnesota.
Design Hackers (Article) in THERE: Journal of Design, v. 3. University of Minnesota.
Techno-green (Article) in THERE: Journal of Design, v. 2. University of Minnesota.
People Pixels (with J Wynia) as part of Super Hero Science. Science Museum of Minnesota. St. Paul, MN.
Home Energy Game (Software Development and Interaction Design) in Sustainable Shelter: Dwelling within the Forces of Nature. Bell Museum of Natural History. Minneapolis, Minnesota. Currently touring nationally.
Co-curator. Emerging Digerati Showcase. University of Minnesota.
City Fight! Discourse and Discord Symposium. Walker Art Center. Minneapolis, MN.
Art(ists) On the Verge Fellowship. Northern Lights.mn. Minneapolis, MN.