Eric.ed.gov – Math in Art or Art in Math.

The concept of integrating mathematics and art course work broadens an appreciation of the connection between the two. Although calculations and getting the right answer have traditionally been the focus of mathematics at the secondary level, other topics have recently begun to be addressed, such as mathographics, or the relationship between art and mathematics, and creative constructions and shapes. Art instruction also includes considerable instruction in mathematics, as artists need to understand such concepts as parallel lines, visual distance, and perspective distortion. Moreover, many examples of mathematics in art works exist, such Albrecht Durer’s use of grids in woodcuts and Salvador Dali’s use of the hypercube, while there are also many examples of literature that support the mathematics/art connection. In interrelating mathematics and art at the college level, educators should keep in mind one of the essential purposes of education: to teach students how to think. Teachers must assume new roles, rather than merely telling students information. Colleges, too, are shifting from institutions that provide instruction to ones that create environments and experiences that help students discover knowledge for themselves. The combination of arts and mathematics can help students balance their education with a combination of creative imagination and logic. Contains 20 references. (HAA)