A Bridge for the Bridges

Year: 2000 Authors: Jason Barnett

Core claim

A bridge modeled on Escher-like impossible structures could serve as a timeless expression of Bridges’ blend of mathematics and aesthetics.

Topics

impossible structures, three-dimensional sculpture, bridge design, mathematical aesthetics

Domains

geometry, spatial visualization, topology, sculpture, installation art, architectural design

Methods

conceptual modeling, visual inspiration, sculptural prototyping

Media

three-dimensional models, printed images, bridge concept

Paper text

The text below is the locally extracted OCR/Markdown version of the paper. Raw PDF files remain local and are not published here.

BRIDGES Mathematical Connections in Art, Music, and Science

A Bridge for the Bridges

Jason Barnett 1072 Dayton Ave, St. Paul, MN 55104, USA E-mail: jasonbarnett@earthlink.net

I was inspired by M.C. Escher in some of his work where he represented realistic environments at the same time adding confusing and structurally impossible elements, which in my mind, adds interest and intrigue. As a sculptor I believed it would be interesting to try to create some of these types of structures in three-dimensional space. I attempted in the two following models to bring similar ideas of impossible structures and gravitational shifts into real space. I believe that these structures have interest on both aesthetic and mathematical levels.

In relation to the Bridges conference where the fields of mathematics and aesthetics blend, I believe that it would be fitting to attempt to build a structure, or more appropriately a bridge, similar to my models, or Escher’s prints on the Southwestern College’s campus. This would make a timeless expression of the great thoughts and theories that come to life here at Bridges.

404 Jason Barnett