Mathematics was created as a way for humans to interpret the world. Throughout history, mathematical concepts have been incorporated into virtually every field of study. This exhibit will outline the growth and development of mathematics throughout each of the following periods of thought:
1. Renaissance
2. Enlightenment
3. Romanticism
4. Trans-Humanism/Today
Mathematics: A Brief History
Mathematics has a unique history that can be difficult to pinpoint the exact dates as we attempt to uncover the true beginnings of it. However, it is believed that the complex systems of mathematics were introduced in 3000 BC and geometry was later developed at around 300 BC.
Mathematics of the Renaissance: Before
This piece is called Madonna and Child Enthroned by Margaritone d'Arezzo which was painted around 1270. Paintings depicting images of the Madonna and child were very popular throughout medieval times and the Renaissance but as we move on to the the next image, the viewer can see a clear difference in the depth of the painting.
Mathematics of the Renaissance: After
With the introduction of perspective during the Renaissance, Giovanni Bellini is able to create a much more complex depiction of the Madonna and child in his piece entitled Madonna of the Meadow made around 1500. In contrast to the previous piece, Bellini utilizes the ideals of geometry to depict depth through a method called linear perspective.
Hilbert: Enlightenment of Mathematics
This piece is a portrait of Enlightenment mathematician, David Hilbert, by Anna Gorban. Hilbert pioneered the use of mathematics to support the scientific discoveries of the time. He argued that mathematics has the potential to answer all questions of the world through its incredible power on reason.
Romantic Era: A Pause to Insight Change
During the Romantic Era, thinkers reject ideals of reason that arose from the Enlightenment. As illustrated in the above image called Wanderer Above the Sea of Fog by Caspar David Friedrich, Romanticists emphasis the individual and depicting deeper emotions. This rejection of reason allowed mathematics to grow as Romantics revealed truths about the dangers of reason without knowledge and morals. Hence, mathematics flourished greatly after the Romantic Era despite its diminished use.
Trans-Humanism: A New World
Skipping over a few other eras, we examine a movement today known as trans-humanism. This ideology claims that the human race can overcome physical and emotional limitations through the use of technology. As seen in the Enlightenment, science revolves around the use of mathematics. This will be a constant throughout time. For innovations in science, one must use mathematics. The relationship between math and science will always be a useful tool in enhancing the world around us.
The Mathematics of Art
This image above shows the mathematical calculations necessary to accurately illustrate proportional shapes. These calculations are integral to the piece and the shell in the middle may not be as aesthetically pleasing without it. The viewer can see the impact of math on art but also the art of math.
Mathematical Precision in Everyday Life
The image above is entitled Instruments Of Mathematical Precision by Vintage Design Pics. This is a contemporary piece that shows the mathematical precision of creating an instrument. Upon further thought, we can extend this precision to typical items we might use every day. For items we use every day, mathematical calculations are made to ensure that it works correctly. Without this precision, we would not have access to the common objects we utilize every day.
The Art of Mathematics
As mathematician Bertrand Russell said, "Mathematics, rightly viewed, possesses not only truth, but supreme beauty. A beauty cold and austere, like that of a sculpture, without appeal to any part of our weaker nature… sublimely pure, and capable of a stern perfection such as only the greatest art can show." There is beauty and perfection in mathematical calculations and proofs that hold the basis for art while also being art itself.
