* MATHS IN ART: A GREAT BEAUTY * Find out about an artist who used shapes

MATHS AND ART: WORKING WITH CREATIVE STUDENTS Since ancient times there has always been a close relationship between mathematics and art. Their many interconnections may prove very useful from a didactic point of view. CURIOSITY, research of BEAUTY, INTUITION and CREATIVITY are necessary elements to be an artist. A mathematician needs these qualities too, together with discipline and strictness (characteristics that never do harm in an artist!). Very few students love maths because it is seen as somewhat dull, dry, abstract that has little to do with our emotions. So it would be interesting to find out how much mathematics is hidden in a work of art. In this way we could draw students attention to mathematical techniques, and let them think over this subject as a journey that will lead to the discovery of a world made of beauty and harmony.

* A kind of mathematics that does not lend art only its technical aspects but that can be a creative source of inspiration, with the result of having original and unexpected solutions. * Our students were asked to watch a series of images, taken from famous paintings, in order to find out the mathematical elements and contents.

* Among them the attention was focused on an oil painting by Salvator Dalì: The Last Supper. * In the background of the painting the students immediately noticed something that reminded them a soccer ball.

ANGELA: Its a very beautiful painting! FRANCESCO: It seems as they were in a ball….. Teacher. : But……do you know how a soccer ball is made ? Would you like to try together? Students: Yes, well make…… the soccer ball of Napoli football club!

* The students were impressed by Naum Gabos paintings and life too. Gabo was a German mathematician who lived in the first half of the last century. During his life he decided to devote himself to art employing the mathematical and technical knowledge he had.

FROM PROJECT TO REALIZATION

Naum Gabos sculptures realized with steel cables

JOIN THE NUMBERS WHOSE SUM IS 10 WHAT CAN YOU SEE?.... ALL THE LINES PASS THROUGH THE SAME POINT

Ciro: it seems to me as they were many segments which have to do their own course.

Julia:if you look at the centre, youll see only black Erik: it seems to me a big ladder

Vincenzo: Maths can have relations with different subjects; in this case it is related with Art. This may cause amazement in people; the works seem simple but they can change their meaning depending on who looks at them.

Many thanks go to the students of the class 1°N and to Mr Russo, our Technology teacher, for his kind contribution and cooperation.