Kevin Lee and Alain Nicolas

Instructor Math/CSCI
Normandale Community College
Minneapolis MN

For several years I have been writing software to create Escher-like tessellations. The goal of my new program, TesselManiac!, is to have users (especially young ones) create tessellations and explore this connection of math and art. TesselManiac! allows you to create thirty-six types of isohedral tessellations. It includes several animations, including one where the tile morphs from a base polygon tile to the final shape.

I have been exploring techniques to laser cut and engrave tiles out of wood. Different species of wood are used to color the tiling . The tiles vary in thickness to add texture. I have been collaborating with Alain Nicolas who has produced many stunning tessellations using TesselManiac!

Viking in Wood Relief
Viking in Wood Relief
29 x 26 x 1 cm
Wood: Maple, Cherry, Walnut, Mahogany
2015

This is my attempt at staging Nicolas's Vikings as a wood ornament. Different species of wood of varying thickness are used in this three color design. The motif was created by Nicolas in TesselManiac! using Heesch type TCCTCC extended to include an interior mirror through the translated sides.