How OpenAI's early gradients were made: heightmaps, layered SVG radials, and DALL·E 2
Methods for Random Gradients
Justin Jay Wang, who worked at OpenAI from 2018, shares the techniques he used to create random gradient images for the company's visual identity. He covers three methods: heightmaps with Perlin noise and randomized color scales, layered SVG radial gradients that powered openai.com's dynamic backgrounds, and AI-generated gradients using DALL·E 2. The post includes many examples and practical prompts for generating dreamlike, floral, and sky-inspired gradients.
While the process of using them can be unpredictable — more akin to a slot machine than exact science — they offer exciting opportunities, and the technology and tools are only getting better.