Adults often overlook the universal presence (and importance) of geometry. In contrast, almost every kindergartener can recite a litany of the many shapes that surround us every day. This branch of mathematics is currently
exerting its influence in design, inspiring imaginative approaches to an emergent geometric aesthetic and encouraging grown-up enthusiasm about the splendor of shapes.
Andy Gilmore: Few kids’ toys hold the timeless appeal of the kaleidoscope, the prismatic effect of which has seen
many a psychedelic interpretation. The latest ode to the tubular trinket’s trippy renderings comes courtesy of digital artist
Andy Gilmore. Created using Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator, Gilmore’s most recent series features intricate geometric patterns, painstakingly arranged in kaleidoscopic symmetry. On a purely visual level, the works are admirable for their complexity and precision—some evoke classic mosaic technique—and their resulting hypnotic effect. But certain pieces hold a deeper meaning, as Gilmore’s patterns often directly reference the
mathematical perfection of musical scales and melodies.
Sophie Blake: In light of growing excitement over
Baz Luhrmann’s over-the-top take on Gatsby, 1920s art deco is primed to make a major comeback. One smart step ahead of the curve is jewelry designer
Sophie Blake, whose latest collection features the linear symmetry and sharp geometric angles characteristic of deco design. The collection evokes the Jazz Age: think
cocktail rings,
dangle earrings, and
charm necklaces that hit at the (drop-)waist. These statement pieces will prove the perfect complements to the upcoming season’s similarly ’20s inspired fashions, as evidenced on the runways of
Ralph Lauren and
in the pages of the
New York Times.
Clara von Zweigbergk: Geometric accents can bring a playful vibe to an otherwise staid space, and designer
Clara von Zweigbergk excels at creating such covetable, bite-sized bits of flair for home décor. Previously lauded for her
Themis mobile, a paper-and-wire, neon-and-neutral “
mobile for grown-ups,” von Zweigbergk recently introduced a line of geometric organizing trays for Danish housewares brand
Hay. As does the mobile, the trays evoke a childhood staple: i.e., the nesting blocks which provide an early introduction to shapes. The steel
trays, designed in complementary colors and varying shapes and sizes, likewise nest together, creating a visually arresting display while saving storage space.
