Arts Explorer #4: Looking for Patterns

Trying to find a pattern was hard to pick because there were so many options. Going to school in Toronto definitely offered many buildings and patterns on the streets but I wanted to make mine a bit more distinct yet personal. I decided to pick a pattern in nature: the design of zebra skin. The zebra design is my most favourite animal print and I actually have many articles of clothing and other belongings imitating this pattern. Although this pattern is in nature it is increasingly popular through imitations in urban settings (for example in stores and products).

picture retrieved from: http://www.graphicshunt.com/images/zebra-7828.htm

 

I went to the Toronto Zoo this summer and took pictures of a zebra since it is my favourite wild animal, this is another aspect of nature still being present within the GTA.

 

         my personal photo of a zebra at the Toronto Zoo

                   Me at the Zoo

The pattern of zebra skin is distinctly repetitive. Having only two colors, its creates an original assumption or sense of simplicity however each stripe is uniquely shaped which creates an intriguing sense of complexity. The closer you analyze zebra stripes the more appreciation for nature’s own beautiful patterns can be felt. Almost everyone including children can identify this pattern which indicates how unique and distinct the zebra pattern really is in the world.

 Art Word of The Week: PATTERN

 

Patterns include alternating sequences of some sort. I think that often times patterns are associated with colors or symmetry however it can be the repeating structure of any aspect in life. Patterns through artwork can be words, designs, shapes, masses, spaces and textures to visually be represented. Patterns can occur naturally or be created.