Math as Art

As the study of patterns both real and abstract, mathematics is an inherently creative and artistic endeavor.

Recent advances in computer technology have finally made possible the widespread discovery and appreciation of the sublime beauty of mathematics. Once the province of just a select few, the art of mathematics can now be freely enjoyed by one and all.

Unfortunately, many people have been mistaught that mathematics is a dry, rote, one-dimensional activity utterly devoid of originality or inventiveness and lacking any real connection to the arts. Luckily for me, I was not one of them. On the contrary, I've always been intrigued by the astonishing musicality of mathematics and entranced by its subtle aesthetics and alluring patterns, and I strive diligently to share this enlightened perspective with my students.

There's no better place to disabuse one's self of the erroneous notion of the lifeless sterility of mathematics than the Wolfram Graphics Gallery. Please take a moment or two to enjoy the amazing, delightful pictures of pure mathematics contained therein (select a gallery, then click on the images it contains).

I think you'll agree – math is art indeed!


Copyright © 2006 Christopher R. Borland. All Rights Reserved.