Geometry of design

Studies in proportion and composition

What do a pine cone, a trout, and the human body have in common?

They all have natural proportioning systems that provide the foundation for the work of many – some would say all – artists and designers. Revealing these natural systems, Kimberly Elam uncovers the mysterios relationship between mathematics and beauty. She takes us into the magical realm of geometry – of Golden Sections and Divine proportion and the Fibonacci Sequence – in language accessible to the most math-squeamish. From there, Elam shows us how symmetry, order, and visual balance underlie designs from the posters of Jan Tschichold to Mies's Barcelona Chair to the new Volkswagn Beetle.

Geometry of design, with its detailed diagrams and beautiful vellum overlays, not only explains how the sciences of measurement inform, even create, beauty in works of nature and art, but more importantly, how we use these techniques to create beauty in our own designs.

Kimberly Elam is head of the Department of Graphic and Interactive Communication at the Ringling School of Art and Design.