I'm Alan Ren. Blending code and creativity to shape digital futures.
I'm Alan Ren, a creative technologist from NYU Tisch's Interactive Telecommunications Program, combining technical expertise with artistic vision. I craft next-generation web experiences using Next.js, React, and WebGL, while exploring immersive technologies and contributing to open-source projects like ml5.js. My work blends technical precision with artistic expression to create digital experiences that inspire and engage.
Expertise
I've spent few years working on my skills. Here are my areas of expertise.
Experience
My professional journey and career path.
Web Developer & Open Source Maintainer
ml5.js & NYU
- Led comprehensive redesign and update of ml5js.org and docs.ml5js.org , enhancing user experience and accessibility for the machine learning community.
- Actively managed GitHub repository, addressing and resolving user-reported issues to improve library functionality and stability.
- Fostered open-source collaboration by implementing community feedback, resulting in continual refinement of documentation and codebase.
Links
- ml5-next-gen repo
- ml5 documentaton repo
Graduate Assistant - The Nature of Code
New York University
- Assisted in teaching the Nature of Code course, covering simulations of natural systems including vectors, forces, oscillation, particle systems, autonomous agents, and physics libraries.
- Supported students in developing creative coding projects with p5.js, focusing on algorithms inspired by natural processes and emergent systems.
- Provided guidance on advanced topics including fractals, cellular automata, genetic algorithms, and neural networks during in-class sessions and office hours.
Web Developer & Network Assistant
New York University
- Redesigned on the Help website for ITP/IMA programs at New York University, focusing on user-centric enhancements and accessibility compliance.
- Conducted 15+ interviews and 40+ surveys to consolidate users’ needs and pain points for the current web design.
- Led the reconstruction of the information architecture for the current website to ensure an intuitive and user-friendly structure.
Links
- ITP/IMA Help
- NYU ITP
- NYU IMA
Graduate Assistant - Introduction to Machine Learning for the Arts
New York University
- Assisted in teaching the Intro to Machine Learning for the Arts course, covering topics such as generative AI, stable diffusion, and machine learning fundamentals with Daniel Shiffman.
- Facilitated lectures, discussions, hands-on tutorials, and group work sessions on creative coding with p5.js, ml5.js, and Transformers.js.
- Guided students in working with in-browser WebGPU machine learning models and model fine-tuning during in-class sessions and office hours.
- Evaluated student assignments, providing feedback and grading based on documentation and criteria specified in the syllabus.
- Managed class participation and attendance, encouraging various forms of engagement such as asking questions, attending office hours, and active listening.
Web Developer & Designer
Self-employed
- Collaborated to redesign their brand identity and translate it into an aesthetically pleasing website design with Figma.
- Developed a visually captivating portfolio for clients with Next.js and Sanity, resulting in a 500+ increase in engagement.
- Implemented SEO strategies to optimize the portfolio website helped get more organic traffic and improved search engine rankings.
Links
- Jixin Zheng - Portfolio
- Different paths, the same end. - Katudio
- 100 Days of Design Engineering
CV
My academic and professional achievements.
Workshops
WTF is Open Source
Open Source Club @ ITP / IMA
Jumpstart - Open Source Electron Wrapper for Creative Coders
COSA x NYU: Machine Learning Tools for Creative Coding
How to contribute to ml5.js?
COSA x NYU: Machine Learning Tools for Creative Coding
Conferences
Live Joking: Live Coding Algorithmic Comedy
8th International Conference on Live Coding (ICLC2024)
Your virtual buddy: UU
Meaningful XR 2024
XR virtual friend designed for children experiencing long-term hospitalization