As we approach the end of the academic year, Year 7, 8, and 9 Academic and Art Scholars traveled to Somerset House to immerse themselves in the mind-bending world of Dutch graphic artist M.C. Escher. Pupils were challenged to explore the fascinating intersection where mathematics meets creative expression through tessellations, symmetry, perspective, and optical illusions.
Tessellations: Where Maths Meets Art
Pupils explored how Escher used geometric shapes to create repeating patterns with no gaps or overlaps. They could see how mathematical principles of symmetry, translation, rotation and reflection were transformed into intricate artworks featuring birds, fish and other interlocking forms.
Perspective and Optical Illusions
Escher’s famous impossible buildings and mind-bending staircases challenged students to think about perspective, visual perception and spatial reasoning. The exhibition demonstrated how mathematical ideas can be used to create artworks that appear to defy logic and reality.
Symmetry, Transformation and Pattern
The exhibition highlighted Escher’s fascination with mathematical transformations, including reflections, rotations and scaling. Students were able to appreciate how these concepts underpin both artistic composition and mathematical thinking, reinforcing the strong connections between the two subjects.
“I found the trip really fun because the geometrical art was really interesting to look at, and it was fun to see a different side to art involving maths” – Evie H Y7