The convergence of mathematics and art may appear to be the meeting of two distinct worlds: one governed by logic and precision, the other by emotion and imagination. However, closer inspection reveals a fundamental synergy between these disciplines-a link as old as humanity’s quest to express beauty, order, and significance in the visual world.
Mathematics, with its numerical language and rules of order and pattern, provides a core framework that artists and designers have long used to achieve harmony, balance, and beauty. The golden ratio, represented by the Greek symbol Phi (Φ) and roughly equal to 1.618, is a widely recognized mathematical notion in art. This ratio has been venerated since antiquity for its aesthetically attractive proportions, which can be found in nature, architecture, painting, and sculpture. The golden ratio is used in compositions such as the Parthenon in Greece, Leonardo da Vinci’s “Vitruvian Man,” and Salvador Dalí’s “The Sacrament of the Last Supper” to create a beautiful and mysterious aesthetic.
In addition to the golden ratio, symmetry and pattern are important in the visual arts because they represent mathematical principles in tangible forms. Islamic art, for example, is well-known for its use of geometric patterns that attain captivating complexity without showing live creatures while adhering to religious beliefs. These patterns are not random, but rather the result of precise mathematical computations, which frequently include sophisticated tiling (tessellations) that cover surfaces in a seamless, endlessly repetitive manner. The Alhambra in Granada, Spain, is a tribute to the mathematical ingenuity and aesthetic vision of Islamic artists and architects who built a world of patterns that fascinate the eye and imagination.
M.C. Escher, for example, used mathematical principles to explore topics like infinity, perspective, and the apparently impossible in his precisely made lithographs and woodcuts. Escher’s work challenges the viewer’s perceptions, demonstrating how mathematical concepts may be used to produce artworks that entice and perplex, providing limitless opportunities for investigation and interpretation.
The application of mathematics in design extends beyond the visual arts, affecting architecture, fashion, and digital media. In architecture, mathematical concepts are used to assure not just the aesthetic appeal of structures, but also their structural integrity and functionality. Mathematics provides a vocabulary for architects to express their thoughts in concrete form, from the symmetrical layouts of ancient temples to the intricate, computer-generated forms of modern skyscrapers.
Learning mathematics and art through monuments and sightseeing in cities is an innovative and engaging way to explore both subjects. Monuments, architectural landmarks, and public art installations often embody mathematical principles and artistic concepts, offering real-world examples that can deepen your understanding. Here’s how to make the most of these opportunities:
For example, students can explore local parks and gardens to observe patterns and symmetry in nature and landscaping. Many city layouts also follow specific geometric patterns and ratios that can be a fun way to see mathematics in urban planning. Also, many historical buildings and modern sculptures integrate mathematical concepts in their design that serve both aesthetic and functional purposes.
Further readings:
Mathematics and art, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mathematics_and_art
The Mathematics in Art, https://artofmaths.eu/the-mathematics-in-art/?lang=el
Mathematics and Art, https://www.ams.org/publicoutreach/feature-column/fcarc-art1