Week 2: Mathematics

It is fairly easy to see math being used in the field of science since scientists frequently must apply mathematical formulas in their research. On the other hand, I used to not think that math played an essential role in art and the social sciences. However, I have recently come to the conclusion that this point of view is incorrect. In art, the understanding of geometry plays a huge role in creating pictures that appear to show a three-dimensional space. By having the edges of objects in the picture converge on a vanishing point, this creates the illusion of perspective (Frantz). 

In addition, math can be used to determine the theory behind origami art and to determine the solutions for origami problems. These solutions can in turn be used in engineering that deals with changing the shape of thin material (Lang). 

Even in Jackson Pollock’s splattered paint art, art that seem to embrace randomness over all else, mathematical fractals can be found under differing levels of magnification (Oulellete). Furthermore, the Fibonacci sequence can be used to make predictions for trends in the stock market (“Fibonacci Trading”). It is clear to me now that math plays an essential role in understanding the social sciences.

I was looking at artist Nathan Selikoff’s website and I was fascinated by his interactive software art called Beautiful Chaos. In this piece of art, mathematical formulas create different designs on a screen. There is a motion control device in front of the screen that changes the coefficient of the formulas based on user input. This creates an interactive art that is amazing to behold. Beautiful Chaos is art that is derived entirely from mathematics.

Works Cited

"Fibonacci Trading." Fibonacci Trading. N.p., n.d. Web. 13 Apr. 2015.<http://www.elliottwave.com/fibonacci/leonardo_fibonacci_numbers_sequence/fibonacci-trading.aspx?code=yt>.

Frantz, Marc, “Lesson 3: Vanishing Points and Looking at Art” 2000

Lang, Robert J. "Robert J. Lang Origami." Robert J. Lang Origami. N.p., n.d. Web. 13 Apr. 2015. <http://www.langorigami.com/>.

Ouellette, Jennifer. "Pollock's Fractals." Discover Magazine. N.p., n.d. Web. 13 Apr. 2015.<http://discovermagazine.com/2001/nov/featpollock>.

Selikoff, Nathan. "Beautiful Chaos." Nathan Selikoff. N.p., 2013. Web. 13 Apr. 2015.<http://nathanselikoff.com/works/beautiful-chaos>.