MATHS200 Mathematical Ideas

The main objective of the course is to provide an understanding of mathematical ideas relevant to art students. The course is based on the premises: 1) Mathematics is a fascinating subject, full of compelling ideas. 2) Many of the underlying ideas share a common ground with issues central to the arts. 3) The art student, as interpreter of our modern society, will benefit greatly from the understanding of these ideas. The course includes an in-depth study of our geometric knowledge, starting in the pre-Greek civilizations and ending with non-Euclidean geometries. Other major themes in the course are: Infinity, numeric systems, calculus, chaos abstract systems, the digital age and humanistic mathematics. The lectures incorporate philosophical and humanistic discussions, hands-on activities and audio-visual screenings.