The Beauty of Geometry
Throughout history artists have incorporated mathematical concepts - such as infinity, number and form - in their work. And for centuries, scientists have discovered mathematical patterns in nature, such as the paths taken by electrons as they flow over the hills and valleys of tiny “landscapes” that are measured in microns (one micron equals one millionth of a meter). With Math and Art being my two favourite subjects I decided to further explore this connection through studying the history of math in art and creating a mathematically accurate drawing (slides 1 and 2). My research led me to Galileo Galilei, in particular his Renaissance personality which he acquired from working alongside prominent artists at the time at the Florentine Design Academy. I learned that his foundational knowledge of drawing was an indispensable skill used to make many of his scientific breakthroughs, such as his discovery of Jupiter’s moons and his detailed observations of the moon's topology.
I then researched artist and architect Raphael Araujo who used the Fibonacci Sequence and the Golden Ratio to create his perspective illustrations and calculation drawings.The Fibonacci sequence and the Golden Ratio are mathematical concepts that appear in various natural forms and art. The Fibonacci sequence, a numerical series where each number is the sum of the two preceding numbers (0, 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, 21, 34,+…), unveils a pattern known as the divine ratio. The Fibonacci sequence manifests its presence ubiquitously in the spirals on seashells and other natural forms. Parallel to the Fibonacci sequence, the Golden Ratio of approximately 1.618, holds a special allure due to its association with beauty and proportion. The Golden Ratio can be observed in diverse forms of art, architecture, and design throughout history. Leonardo da Vinci used the Golden Ratio as a guiding principle in his compositions, seeking to achieve an ideal balance and pleasing visual experience.
Raphael’s approach to the Golden Ratio within his work has a geometrical character rather than a mathematical one. He calculates the golden Mean as well as the Fibonacci Spiral with utter precision by using the classical tools of technical drawing. “We may take it for granted now that in substance, seriousness, significance the advantage of a real mathematical theorem is overwhelming. It is almost equally obvious, to a trained intelligence, that it has a great advantage in beauty also; but this advantage is much harder to define or locate,” (Hardy, 1940 p.56).
