cassiedoddDESMA9 Week 2 - Math + Art

Buckminster Fuller once said, “Everyone is born a genius, but the process of living de-geniuses them.” Nowhere is this more evident than in the way we often separate disciplines like art and mathematics; however, contrary to belief, they are deeply intertwined. 

I always viewed mathematics and art as completely separate and entirely distinct from each other, almost on opposite ends of the spectrum. However, these lectures and readings have shown me how mistaken I was. It has revealed that mathematics is key to creating perspective in art, allowing artists to represent three-dimensional space on a two-dimensional surface. By using geometric principles like vanishing points and angles, artists can add depth and realism to their work. A vanishing point is where parallel lines seem to meet far away, providing the illusion of depth (Marc Franz). It’s basically a visual trick rooted in geometry that helps our brains believe we’re looking into a three-dimensional space, even though it’s just a flat surface.


Visual Example of the Vanishing Point


Then there's the golden ratio, a mathematical harmony that appears in nature, architecture, and iconic works of art. The golden ratio is defined as a line divided into two parts, one of which is longer than the other. If the whole length divided by the long part is equal to the long part divided by the short part, you’ve got yourself the golden ratio (Museum of Science). Leonardo Da Vinci was especially famous for showcasing this in his artwork, with both The Mona Lisa and The Vitruvian Man demonstrating this stunning balance (Vesna). The use of proportion and geometry highlights how much math has shaped the way we define beauty.


 
Leonardo Da Vinci's Artwork, The Vitruvian Man (left) and The Mona Lisa (right) 


As someone who wouldn’t call myself an “art nerd,” I often forget that movies themselves are a powerful form of art. Good Will Hunting reminded me of that (Van Sant, Gus). The way Will sees patterns in numbers isn’t just about solving equations but also about making sense of the world around him. In a way, his mathematical genius mirrors how an artist interprets reality through a canvas, both attempting to find meaning in different ways.


Good Will Hunting Math Problem Clip


So, how do we explain the juxtaposition of math, art, and science? Honestly, I don’t think it’s a juxtaposition at all (cdiaz@gmw.org). Honestly, I think they’re just different ways of asking the same thing: What’s this world all about, and how do we even begin to understand it?

Text References:

“Art and Mathematics: The Intricate Relationship between Numbers and Aesthetics.” Eclectic Gallery, Eclectic Gallery, 2024, eclecticgallery.co.uk/news/226-art-and-mathematics-the-intricate-relationship-between-numbers-the-mathematical-canvas-unveiling-the-geometry-of-artistic/.

cdiaz@gmws.org. “Math, Science and Art: A Virtuous Cycle - Green Meadow Waldorf School.” Green Meadow Waldorf School, 29 July 2024, www.gmws.org/blog-news/math-science-and-art-a-virtuous-cycle/. Accessed 11 Apr. 2025.

Frantz, Marc. Chapter 3: Vanishing Points and Looking at Art. 2000, www.cs.ucf.edu/courses/cap6938-02/refs/VanishingPoints.pdf.

Museum of Science. “Activity: Golden Ratio.” Www.mos.org, www.mos.org/leonardo/activities/golden-ratio.html.

Van Sant, Gus. Good Will Hunting. Miramax, 1997.

Image References: 

“Mona Lisa | Leonardo Da Vinci Golden Ratio Proportion | Golden Ratio Colors.” Goldenratiocolors.com, goldenratiocolors.com/mona-lisa-leonardo-da-vinci-golden-ratio-proportion/.

Meisner, Gary. “Divine Proportion/Golden Ratio in the Art of Da Vinci.” The Golden Ratio: Phi, 1.618, 24 Sept. 2016, www.goldennumber.net/leonardo-da-vinci-golden-ratio-art/.

Van Sant, Gus. Good Will Hunting. Miramax, 1997.

What Is a Vanishing Point and How to Perfect It in Architectural Drawings? - Arch2O.com. 22 Jan. 2023, www.arch2o.com/what-is-a-vanishing-point-how-to-perfect-in-architectural-drawings/.


Comments

  1. Francesca AlupeiApril 12, 2025 at 9:58 PM

    I love how you’ve explored the relationship between mathematics and art, and how concepts like vanishing points and the golden ratio bring depth and harmony to creative works. The examples of Leonardo da Vinci’s masterpieces and the connection to geometry really highlight how math is a universal language that transcends disciplines. I did something similar as well in my post.
    I also appreciate the mention of Good Will Hunting it’s such a powerful reminder that mathematical genius can be as interpretative and creative as painting on a canvas. Your reflection on art, math, and science not being in juxtaposition but rather different ways of understanding the world is very insightful.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Reiley WilliamsApril 13, 2025 at 6:32 PM

    Hi Cassie, I really enjoyed reading your post! I especially loved the way you connected mathematical concepts like vanishing points and the golden ratio to visual storytelling—it made those ideas feel really accessible. Your mention of "Good Will Hunting" as an artistic expression of mathematical genius was such a unique angle. I hadn’t thought of math as a form of interpretation in the same way art is, but you helped me see that parallel. Do you think movies are one of the most effective mediums for blending art, science, and math? I’d love to hear more of your thoughts on other films or artworks that made you see that connection.

    ReplyDelete

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