World Changing #6

Lauren Korany

Continuing on the idea of Biomimicry, Abrams introduces Biomorphism (pg 102). Both subjects use nature as inspiration in different ways. The difference lies in the final creation. Biomimicry uses natures “codes” to create the best functional design whereas; Biomorphism is bases purely on looks and form. As we’ve seen, evolution finds the most functional form for specialized needs. Those forms can be beautiful as well. Biothing is a lab in Columbia University that researches the algorithms to generate form design (very similar to that of NASA’s Biomimicry). The program that generates the codes is called Genware. Genware is able to create pattern intelligence based on natural codes, much like DNA strands. Each product is randomly selected based on variables in the code. Unlike Biomimicry, the code is not constantly readjusted to find the perfect outcome (unless the form is not pleasant). Biothing creates interior design products that interact with the spaces they are put in, rather than being purely utilitarian. Front Design (a Swedish design firm) takes a different approach to Biomorphism. Rather than coding strands to create forms, they use live organisms to create their products. For example, rats gnaw paper to create naturally patterned holes for fabric or wallpaper. They also calculate the flight paths of insects, and transform that pattern into products. Architectural designs have been known to mimic the form of nature as well (pg 105). “The Core” is an educational center in England that is based on the mathematical pattern of sunflower seeds or pinecones. The Milwaukee Art Museum is designed as a bird in flight. The exterior can be “flapped” to control light and heat in the building.

It easily escapes artists that math is often the basis for art. Many times the structures we build are inspired consciously or subconsciously by objects in nature. Those objects are actually based on mathematics. I find this astonishing. Two things come to mind: the Fibonacci sequence and Joshua Davis. The Fibonacci sequence is the basis for items in nature, such as outer ear structures and conch shells. Joshua Davis is a contemporary artist who generates code to create his art pieces. His process almost parallels that of Genware. He sets the variables for symbols he wants to use in his piece and the code will generate multiple prints based on the same sets of codes (with altered positions of the variables). Both the mathematics sequence and the artist tie together in these subjects.

A link to Joshua Davis’ work is here