Roberto Giardili

Statement

The motivation for my work comes from the idea that mathematical methods and concepts can be used as a source of art. In particular, I focus on the design and construction of sculptures inspired by fractal geometry through traditional methods. For this purpose, I made my own program, a 3D version of L-systems, that allows me to combine starting shape (initiator) and the rule for modifying it (generator) and, from an aesthetic perspective, select the sculpture to create. Once this sculpture is defined, I calibrate the scale to define the overall size, and obtain each segment's dimensions (length, starting angle, final angle and rotation between the planes of each end), verifying that there are no overlapping. The design of the fractal sculpture constitutes the first part of the process. Complexity arises with the construction. This requires both developing the hardware tools to cut and weld the tubings, and monitoring to minimize error accumulation with each junction sequence

Artworks

The sculpture Triangular Wriggle is based on an L-system. The hidden initiator is formed by a pair of four-pieced ascending helices out of phase 180 degrees that converge to the center in the top point. The generating curve is inspired in the Von Koch curve but extended to 3D. It is made of four tubings placed between the initiator’s vertices. The length of its branches is reduced as it rises along the initiator helix.

The sculpture Octahedral Adventure is based on an L-system where the starting shape (initiator) is constituted by six (of twelve) octahedron edges. The generating curve (which follows the initiator) is inspired by the Von Koch curve but is extended to 3D, and consists of four tubing of greater diameter but equal length, located between initiator’s vertices.