One in Two, Two in One:

Mathematics and art are related endeavors? The view of most people is that art and mathematics could not be more different. One is left brain, the other right brain. One is creative, the other analytical. While this prevailing view is a partial truth, what mathematician has not marveled at the beauty of an elegant proof, and what serious artist has not been aware of the importance of form and composition to a successful art work? Both disciplines are creative endeavors with analytical components that are essential elements of contemporary civilization. Here, we hope to make the case that, like the yin/yang symbol, art and mathematics are really one in two, and two in one. Here, we will discuss some of the ways that mathematics and art are both similar and different; how they express complementary aspects of life and culture; and how they both share a fundamental unity on a deeper level. Mathematics can indeed be defined as the general science of pattern and structure. Because art also involves patterns and structures, art and math relate to each other in many natural ways, which is the basis for this exploration. This exploration has also produced collaborations with artists working with mathematical themes and has coincided with several recent art exhibitions in Colorado. These art exhibitions have been exploring the idea that art and mathematics are intimately related on a deeper level. We will also discuss some recent Colorado art exhibitions that provide good examples of how the collaboration between mathematics and art has found public expression. Two In One