An algorithm for one-stroke kolam generation using a gating structure

Abstract “Kolam” is a floor-drawn artform practiced in southern India. We develop a novel computer algorithm to autonomously generate large one-stroke kolams around a grid of symmetrically laid out anchor-dots with a single trace from start to finish. A gating structure directs the kolam’s path around each anchor-dot. The algorithm is based on a mathematical description of the kolam path’s evolution and uses an iterative gate-switching scheme to obtain symmetric one-stroke kolams with desired aesthetics. We demonstrate the versatility of our approach by generating kolams for arbitrary dimensions. The perceived aesthetic is assessed with a survey of a sample of generated kolams. Our aim is digital preservation of kolam heritage that is under threat due to societal change with consideration given to potential conflicts with traditional human practice.