Taper: Creative Constraints and Minimalist Design in a Computational Poetry Publication

Abstract

In an era defined by rapid technological evolution, digital publications are not only effective means of distribution; they also advance creativity, collaboration, and cultural impact. This paper explores the seven-year journey of Taper, a magazine for computational poetry, broadly defined, that invites computational creativity and uses a minimal design. By embracing deliberate constraints, including a restriction on program/poem size and different themes for different issues, Taper fosters innovation through remix culture, experimentation, and collaboration. These approaches nurture a dynamic community of practice at the intersection of literary art and programming while advancing grassroots strategies for sustainable growth and long-term viability. Reflecting on Taper’s evolution, this paper illustrates how minimalist design principles and computational frameworks can amplify creative expression, strengthen community engagement, and cultivate ecosystems capable of addressing pressing societal challenges. These findings demonstrate how a collectively-edited project can spur artistic innovation and “creativity for change,” enabling lasting impact in a shifting creative landscape.