VOSC is a visual particle synthesizer that allows for the manipulation of large numbers of on screen particles through the use of oscillators. By manipulating the size, shape, and frequency of the oscillators, some very intricate patterns can be created.

A primary visual mechanism at work in VOSC is the phenomenon of visual harmony as explored by the computer graphics pioneer and visual artist John Whitney in the mid 20th century. The oscillators of VOSC operate in accordance with Whitney's principle of differential motion, giving rise to harmonic resonances as their frequencies move across whole ratios.