Art 127 / Math 155
Rose
Windows
· To understand the construction and design of a Rose window in a Gothic cathedral.
· To understand the use of iconography in Rose windows.
· To understand the use of geometry, symmetry, and spirals used in Rose windows.
· To design and construct a rose window using geometry, symmetry, and/or golden spirals.
1. You will want to do some practice windows before you actually begin working on the poster board.
2. Start by drawing a circle using a compass that will fit an 8 x 8” square.
3. Decide which design technique you wish to use based on the in-class demonstration. For example, you could use symmetry of geometrical objects (which can be designed using division of the central angle or using nested squares or diagonals), or you might choose spirals that are accomplished by using the divergence angle. (Use the overlay of the spirals; you can choose the number of spirals.) Be sure to discuss in your written analysis what method you chose to use.
4. Once you decide on your design technique (step 3), create the layout of the geometric figures within the circle. Your window must exhibit some kind of symmetry in the arrangement of the shapes. Be conscious of step 5 when deciding on the intricacy of your design.
5. When your design is done, trace the design onto the poster board. As carefully as possible, cut out the shapes using an exacto knife.
6. Using the sheets of vellum, create color in your design by attaching the sheets to the back of the poster board. (Use a glue stick for this process.)
7. Create a short (5 minute) in-class oral presentation on your window. In your presentation, be sure to discuss the geometric elements in your window and why you created the design as your did.
8. Write your analysis of the project; be sure to include answers to the questions below.
9. Finally, turn in your design sheet (steps 2 & 3), final window (steps 5 & 6), and the discussion question (step 8).
Which design technique did you choose? Why? Discuss the geometric elements you included. Discuss any symmetry in your design. Discuss the reasoning for choosing the number and layout of the geometric shapes. Include discussion of any other elements that are important to your final product (use of colors, use of symbols). Are you happy with your final window? If you did it again, what would you do differently? Discuss any experimentation or difficulties you encountered. Did any surprises arise during design or construction?
Process: 33% of the grade. This part of your grade will be based on your effort and thoughtfulness (for the design and window), quality of your work, as well as your attendance and participation in class. Persistence and experimentation are important parts of this project. Be sure to discuss any experimentation or problem solving that you did in your written analysis.
Project: 33% of the grade. This grade will be based on the technical aspects of the design and construction of your window. The window must include mathematical shapes, symmetry, and/or spirals. These elements need to be visually clear. Color should be used to enhance the design. The mathematical elements included must be correct.
Verbal & Written Explanation: 33% of the grade. This grade will be based on your oral presentation of your window as well as on your written answers to the discussion questions. Your written analysis needs to be typed or word-processed and approximately 250 words in length. Your written work will be assessed for the correctness of your mathematical analysis, your thoughtfulness, and your logical organization and clarity. Your oral presentation will also be assessed for length, content, and your presentation style. The oral presentation is worth 25% and the written analysis is worth 75% of this grade.