Public Lectures

Symmetry in Art and Architecture

Description

The goal of this talk is to change the way you look at the world around you. You will learn how to use mathematics to analyze and describe patterns and symmetry in art and architecture, using a variety of examples, including Chinese ceramics, Islamic art and buildings in Singapore. We will focus on the symmetry of the patterns, and not the motif itself. Different cultures have a preference for different symmetry types, and this can be used to determine the origin and date of artifacts.

Speaker

Helmer Aslaksen

Abstract

The goal of this talk is to change the way you look at the world around you. You will learn how to use mathematics to analyze and describe patterns and symmetry in art and architecture, using a variety of examples, including Chinese ceramics, Islamic art and buildings in Singapore. We will focus on the symmetry of the patterns, and not the motif itself. Different cultures have a preference for different symmetry types, and this can be used to determine the origin and date of artifacts.

Audience

Open to all

Date

22 Feb 03 (Sat), 12noon — 1pm

Venue

NUS, LT31

Coordinator

A/P Denny Leung

The talk will be followed by a buffet lunch at 1pm and the Annual General Meeting of the Singapore Mathematical Society at 1:30pm. The Annual General Meeting is open only to members of the Singapore Mathematical Society.