Maurits Cornelis Escher was an artist who had a natural understanding of complex mathematical concepts and expressed this through his artwork. This is according to Professor Florian Breuer who hosted a lecture on the art of Escher at the Stellenbosch University Gallery (GUS) last week.
“From a technical aspect this work is very meticulous and difficult. There are two sides, there is the pedantic exacting aspect and the light-brained, flighty, creative art. Escher combined both for effective art,” explained Prof. Breuer.
Prof. Breuer said that while Escher was not widely accepted in the world of art, he was warmly accepted among mathematicians for visually expressing complex concepts.
Although Escher had little understanding of mathematics, his art shows complex mathematical concepts creating a bridge between the two fields, according to Prof. Breuer.
The Belvedere, by MC Escher. Photo: https://www.puzzlewarehouse.com/MC-Escher-Belvedere-11367bg.html
Escher’s work continues to be relevant because of its mathematical depth. He mainly used geometry and symmetry in his drawings, and was able to take complex diagrams such as the Circle Limit, which he used to depict the idea that straight lines are in fact big circles.
He used the diagram to incorporate natural and visual aesthetics, producing a more appealing and accessible interpretation of the ideas he explored. He is celebrated among mathematicians especially for his visual analogies of complex mathematical concepts.
Hennie Kotze, an attendee of Breuer’s lecture, said that Escher’s work is the type that prompts one to ask questions about their universe. “When you look at his art you ask yourself ‘what am I looking at?’ and ‘what am I perceiving?’”
“All of a sudden you are engaged in this deep conversation with yourself about the realities of life and what is absurd. His art brings us in touch with life’s absurdities,” Kotze said.
“Escher was very successful amongst mathematicians, scientists and chemists who were all very fascinated with his work. He was however, unsuccessful as an artist because his work does not speak to the human condition and the political situation of his time,” suggested Breuer.
While Escher lived through both World Wars (1898 – 1972), his work was based on mathematical concepts as opposed to people. It was this approach that made him less appreciated in the world of art and more among mathematicians.
Professor Florian Breuer during his lecture on MC Escher’s artwork. Photo: Teboho Mokonyana.