Pixels

Pixels is a collaborative canvas API developed by Python Discord that allows users to paint pixel by pixel by sending coordinate and color data via HTTP PUT requests. It is designed primarily as a learning tool for developers new to APIs, providing a simple and interactive way to understand API interactions through a real-time shared canvas. The project is open to users of all experience levels, encouraging community participation and experimentation.

The API supports authentication via Discord OAuth2, enabling users to authorize and interact with the canvas securely. The backend is built with FastAPI and uses PostgreSQL and Redis for data storage and caching. The project is containerized with Docker Compose for easy local setup and development. Environment variables configure database connections, OAuth credentials, and other runtime settings.

What sets Pixels apart is its focus on education and community engagement rather than complex functionality. It offers a straightforward API interface that helps beginners grasp API concepts while also serving as a fun collaborative art platform. The source code and documentation are fully open source and maintained by the Python Discord community, with active contributions and issue tracking on GitHub. Developers can get started quickly by cloning the repository, setting environment variables, and running the Docker Compose stack locally.