Computer Graphics in Python and Pycairo

Module 1: Intro to Pycairo & Graphics Fundamentals

⏳ 1 week

• Topics: Graphics pipeline overview, Cairo architecture, setting up Python and Pycairo

• Hands-on: Install Pycairo, render your first “Hello World” drawing with basic shapes

Module 2: Drawing Primitives & Paths

⏳ 1 week

• Topics: Lines, rectangles, circles, Bézier curves, and filling/stroking paths

• Hands-on: Implement a function to draw stylized flourishes composed of multiple curves

Module 3: Coordinate Systems & Transformations

⏳ 1 week

• Topics: Cartesian vs. device coordinates, saving/restoring contexts, affine transforms

• Hands-on: Draw a grid of rotated, scaled shapes by manipulating the context matrix

Module 4: Colors, Patterns & Gradients

⏳ 1 week

• Topics: RGB and HSL color spaces, solid vs. linear/radial gradients, pattern surfaces

• Hands-on: Create a radial-gradient sunset and overlay a tiled pattern mask

Module 5: Text & Typography

⏳ 1 week

• Topics: Font selection, text metrics, alignment, and advanced text-on-path techniques

• Hands-on: Render a heading along a curved path with precise kerning and alignment

Module 6: Layering & Compositing

⏳ 1 week

• Topics: Alpha blending, mask layers, group operations, clipping regions

• Hands-on: Compose a multi-layered illustration using masks for complex shapes

Module 7: Exporting & Performance Considerations

⏳ 1 week

• Topics: Output formats (PNG, PDF, SVG), commit vs. flush, drawing performance tips

• Hands-on: Benchmark render times for an animation sequence and optimize by reducing state changes

Module 8: Capstone Project – Interactive Data Visualization

⏳ 1 week

• Topics: Plotting dynamic data, animating transitions, user-driven redraws

• Hands-on: Build an interactive bar chart or line graph that updates based on random data feeds

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