Donald Plante

Statement

As a mathematician and artist, I am drawn to the intersection of these two disciplines. My research centers on fractal geometry and self-assembly and its potential for creating new forms of art. Recently, I have been fascinated by the possibilities that 3D printing offers for bringing these mathematical models to life. In particular, the study of virus capsids and their self-assembling structures has provided a rich source of inspiration, offering insights into the elegance and efficiency of nature's design principles. In my work, I seek to explore the beauty and complexity of these forms, leveraging the power of self-assembly to transcend traditional artistic boundaries and share my passion for creativity with others.

Artworks

"Eternal Helix" is a vision of order emerging from the random interplay of forces, a self-assembling sculpture born from motion. Each 3D-printed tile, showcasing one of ten unique ABA patterns, magnetically joins to create a helix with near infinite possibilities. The metallic silver and vibrant red hues anticipate a future where advanced technologies harness self-assembly for creating sophisticated, functional systems. This sculpture invites viewers to ponder the profound simplicity from which infinite possibilities can emerge, illustrating the elegant dance of order out of chaos.