Introduction
Grab some canvas, some paint, and some paintbrushes.
You're about to create a masterpiece! On this adventure, you'll learn
about the art of painting the human face. Along the way, you'll research
the methods of a master painter and learn about how artists use the
Golden Ratio to achieve balance in their works. Don't forget to bring
your math tool kit and a steady hand. This is an adventure you'll want
to frame!
The Task
Below is a brief description of each activity
you will encounter in this WebQuest. Remember, if you have any questions,
the Guidance section has some helpful hints, and the Resources section
has some useful Web sites.
Art Challenge
1
First, research the famous mathematical artist M.C. Escher.
Art Challenge 2
Next, use your knowledge of proportions to make a drawing of a classmate's
face.
Art Challenge 3
Finally, research and write a report on the Golden Ratio and the Golden
Rectangle.
The Process
Below is a detailed description of each
challenge.
Art Challenge 1
Use the Internet to research the life and three different works
of M.C. Escher. Then write a 1-2 page report that discusses how
M.C. Escher used mathematics in his works. Also, describe what fascinated
you about M.C. Escher’s works and why. Cite at least two different
Web sites in your report.
Art Challenge 2
Next, make a drawing of a classmate's face. Create this scale drawing
of his or her face on a sheet of grid paper by following these directions.
First, measure the height and width of your classmate's face.
Then, measure the distance from your classmate's hairline to the
top of their eyes.
Finally, measure the height and width of your classmate's eyes,
cheeks, nose, lips, ears, and chin.
Once you have made all of your measurements, set up proportions
to create a scale drawing of their face.
For instance, one proportion will be height of drawing eyes/height
of real eyes = scale factor. So, if 1 inch = 3 inches in your drawing
and your classmate's real eyes were 2 inches tall, then you would
write x/2 = 1/3 and solve for x to find the height of their eye on
your drawing. Be sure to include a scale with your drawing as well
as a sheet that shows all of your measurements and calculations.
Art Challenge 3
Finally, use the Internet to research the Golden Ratio and Golden Rectangle.
Then write a 1-2 page report that includes the following information:
an explanation of the Golden Ratio and Golden
Rectangle in mathematical terms;
how the Golden Ratio is used in art and how it
has effected art, especially during the Renaissance period;
a descriptive list of different examples of the
Golden Ratio in art and mathematics; and
pictures of art that makes use of the Golden
Ratio and Golden Rectangle, as well as an analysis of each piece of
art included.
Guidance
If you are having difficulties with a particular
challenge, take a look at some of the helpful hints below.
Art
Challenge 1
It will be helpful to find a picture of each of the pieces of art
you will be discussing in your report and include a printout of the
art in your report. Also, be certain to include the names of each piece
of art.
When writing your report, remember to discuss who Escher was and
what he did. Describe his art style and explain what to you is so intriguing
about him.
Art Challenge 2
To review solving proportions, refer to Lesson
4-3 in your text.
To review scale drawings, refer to Lesson 4-7
in your text.
Remember, your proportions are going to
give you the specific length or width of a facial feature. They
will not tell you exactly where someone’s nose curves down!
You have to use a little bit of your artistic skills in this Challenge.
Art Challenge 3
When writing your report, be certain to include an introduction
and a conclusion. Moreover, be sure to properly cite any information
you take from the Internet.
Including examples of different pieces
of art that use the Golden Ratio is strongly recommended. What’s
more, it would be beneficial if you analyzed each piece of art
you used as an example, explaining where in the art the Golden
Ratio or Golden Rectangle are found.
Be certain that the Web sites you are using
are credible. Be sure to thoroughly analyze a Web site before citing
it. Looking at the last date of publication, its sponsor, and the different
language used throughout the Web site are a few items to analyze before
using a Web site.
Conclusion
Voila! You have finished your journey through
a world full of mathematical art! Isn't it amazing how math can be found
in every dimension of life? Ratios, proportions, percents and more are
all an intricate part of art and mathematics. Through your hard work,
you have experienced art through the perspective of a mathematician!
Congratulations on completing these challenging tasks!
