The Order of Nature: Geometry and Patterns

Subject
Geometry
Location
The Prince's Foundation School of Traditional Arts China Centre
Dates
2022.11.21 - 2022.11.23
Tutor
Lisa DeLong

This module will encourage students to contemplate Geometry’s true inherent meaning in the realm of the order of nature. Students will experience geometry as a contemplative discipline. The skill of concentration, which draws forth the virtue of patience, is required throughout their whole studies. Students will deepen their knowledge of design principles by studying patterns and proportions of six-, eight-, twelve- and ten-fold symmetries and their associated proportional systems. Students will also be able to analyse these patterns in the context of artistic and architectural elements. These designs will then be applied into a variety of art and craft modules. 

  • Understand the status of geometry as a universal science in Traditional Art and Architecture. 
  • Learn terminologies, concepts and symbolism inherent in geometry. 
  • Develop a subtle understanding symmetries 
  • Develop excellent geometrical drawing techniques 
  • Apply a design in the context of themed projects. 
  • Use geometry as a tool for design analysis and a method to transfer designs for craft-work at the correct scale.

Tutor biography

Lisa DeLong

Lisa DeLong completed her PhD at the Prince’s Foundation School of Traditional Arts in 2007, specialising in the principles of geometric design in Islamic and Western traditions. Lisa is the author of Curves: Flowers, Foliates and Flourishes in the Formal Decorative Arts, and also spoke at TEDx BYU 2016. She is Outreach Programme Manager for the School, designing and conducting educational programmes and workshops in Pakistan, Dunhuang, Azerbaijan, Malaysia, and the United Arab Emirates.