Described herein are systems and methods for controlling an illumination area as a function of time, location, or position. The systems and methods may generate illumination patterns having aesthetic effects or conveying information. In one example, a device for selectively controlling a projected illumination beam pattern of visible or non-visible illumination includes a mirror for receiving and reflecting light from an illumination source, where the mirror is operable to move in an oscillating motion, and a controller for generating time varying signals for causing the illumination source to vary a characteristic of the light (e.g., color, intensity, shape, or combinations thereof) from the illumination source and produce a predetermined illumination pattern. The controller (which may include suitable logic such as software, firmware, hardware, or combinations thereof) may operate to modulate a characteristic of the illumination source over time based on the orientation of the mirror and the predetermined illumination pattern.