Introduction
The artist M. C. Escher is
well known for his prints that feature symmetry and patterns of repeated forms.
You can look at his work in the galleries on the site at www.mcescher.com. Symmetry
refers to balanced proportions or beauty of form arising from balanced
proportions. Symmetrical art, such as many of M. C. Escher's prints, features
forms of the same shape and size in an opposite position relative to a dividing
line or axis. Many of the symmetrical works of M. C. Escher also feature
tessellations or mosaics of repeating forms. In this treasure hunt, you will
explore how artists, like M. C. Escher, and architects and even fashion
designers use symmetry and tessellation in their work.
Guiding Question
What is so pleasing about
symmetry and mosaic patterns?
Questions
1.
What cultures influenced M. C. Escher's work?
2. What is the definition of
tessellation? Find some examples of tessellating patterns.
3. What are some famous structures
that have used tessellations? Find at least 5 examples.
4. What movies have featured
M. C. Escher's artwork?
5. Besides the symmetry
drawings that he is well-known for, what other types or artwork did M. C.
Escher make?
6. When did Escher live?
Where?
7. How do contractors use
mosaics in their buildings (ex. Bathroom tiling)? Give 3 examples.
8. Where can you find the
earliest examples of mosaics?
9. How do fashion designers
use symmetry in their work? How do they use tesselations? Give 3 examples.
10. How are tessellations
relevant to sports? Give 3 examples.
Internet Resources
Wikipedia: M.C. Escher
Escher:
The Original Optical Illusionist
Enlargements of Escher Art
High resolution Escher Art
M.C. Escher : The Offical Site
M.C.
Escher in Popular Culture
Tessellations in Tiling
Tessellations in Tiling: Part Deux
Alhambra the
Architect & tiling
Geodomes
of Sports
Geodesic artchitect:
Buckminster Fuller
Tessillations
on Fabric -> fashion
Activities
1. Create a children's book
inspired by M. C. Escher's symmetrical drawings.
2. Make a comic strip inspired by M. C. Escher's symmetrical drawings.
3. Design a room using symmetry.
4. Research and describe the influence of M. C. Escher's work.
5. Design a "How to do" tessellations or mosaic project for 4th
graders.
A math teacher and an AP student
collaborated to develop this web hunt.
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