Symmetry in Islamic Art

Term Paper # 104257

Art
Education > Teaching Methods
Mathematics

This paper explains how geometric concepts can be taught based on the symmetry found in Islamic art.

2,537 words () | 13 sources | MLA | 2008 United States

Paper Summary:

The paper looks at the extensive use of geometric and symmetrical patterns in Islamic art. The paper provides a definition of geometry and looks at translations, rotations and reflections in Islamic art. The paper then examines the mathematics of symmetry and how symmetry, as manifested in Islamic art, can be utilized to teach geometry in the contemporary classroom.

Outline:
Introduction
Symmetry in Islamic art, Part I
Symmetry in Islamic Art, Part II
Symmetry in Islamic Art, Part III

From the Paper:

"Many civilizations have long used artistic designs for a variety of purposes. For instance, some civilizations have used artistic designs for emblematic purposes, while some have used artistic designs for ornamental and/or architectural purposes; still others, perhaps unsurprisingly, have used artistic designs for spiritual symbolism. Another thing that is not at all a surprise is that artistic designs almost invariably utilize mathematical concepts. Specifically, within the Islamic art tradition, there has long been the extensive use of geometric and symmetrical patterns - so much so that it may be put forward that one of the defining features of Islamic art is its ability to incorporate mathematical concepts and ideas in ways that are rich, vibrant and aesthetically pleasing."

Sample of Sources Used:

Abas, Syed Jan and Amer Shaker Salman. Symmetries of Islamic Geometrical Patterns. London: World Scientific Publishing, 1995.
Annenberg Media. "Rotation Symmetry." Learning Math: Geometry. 2007. Annenberg Media. 21 May 2007 <http://www.learner.org/channel/courses/learningmath/geometry/session7/part_b/index.html>
Bickley-Green, Cynthia Ann. "Math and Art Curriculum Integration: A Post-Modern Foundation." Studies in Art Education, 37.1 (1995): 6-18.
Cross, K. and A. Haworth. "Images of balance and order: patterns in Islamic art as geometric teaching aid. Times Educational Supplement. May 19, 2000 i4377, pS12(2).
The Math Lab. "Geometry Legal Reasons: Level 4." 2005. Themathlab.com. 21 May 2007 <http://www.themathlab.com/geometry/mathcourt/level4/reasonslevel4.htm>