The exhibit investigates links between art, mathematics and human emotion and draws connections between the physical world, which can be represented by mathematical equations, and the emotional world, which is often described through art.
Can mathematics describe human emotion?
The exhibition, Inner Equations, poses an unusual question: “Can mathematics
describe human emotion?" In an attempt to find an answer, Inner Equations
investigates links between art, mathematics and human emotion and draws connections
between the physical world, which can be represented by mathematical equations, and
the emotional world, which is often described through art.
Opening June 17 at the
Heard Museum, this exhibit is collaboration between Lorenzo Clayton, Navajo, and
George Sidebotham, two professors from New York City’s Cooper Union for Advancement
of Science and Art. Inner Equations was first installed in the Jersey City Museum in
2004.
At first appearances, Clayton, a professor of printmaking, and Sidebotham, a
professor of chemical engineering, might seem to be uncommon collaborators. Yet,
they found common ground to create Inner Equations in the concept of anthroposophy
or “spiritual science," which was developed by Austrian philosopher Rudolf Steiner.
Inspired by Steiner’s writings, Inner Equations investigates parallels that exist
between rational concepts of math and science and irrational human emotion.
Lorenzo Clayton is a printmaker and painter who has exhibited nationally and
internationally. His work belongs to permanent collections of the Heard Museum, the
Museum of Northern Arizona, the Tucson Museum of Art, the Zimmerli Art Museum, the
Morris Museum, the Newark Museum and the Eiteljorg Museum. George Sidebotham has a
doctorate in mechanical and aerospace engineering from Princeton University. He has
published in the engineering field and has received numerous fellowships including
an Exxon Teaching Fellowship and a Guggenheim Fellowship.
Inner Equations is organized by Joe Baker, Delaware Tribe of Indians, and will be on
display through September 10, 2006.
The exhibit was organized by the Center for Intercultural Studies at Rutgers
University and presented at the Jersey City Museum, Jersey City, NJ, 2004. The
Heard Museum is pleased to present for the first time Clayton’s fully actualized
ambitions for the installation as initially conceived.
About the Heard Museum
Since 1929, the Heard has educated visitors from around the world about the art and
cultures of Native people of the Southwest. With almost 40,000 artifacts in its
permanent collection, an education center and award-winning Shop & Bookstore and
Cafe', the Heard remains committed to being a place of learning, discovery and
unforgettable experiences.
For more information go to: http://www.heard.org
Heard Museum
2301 North Central Avenue - Phoenix
Opening Hours: Daily 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Admission: USD 10/5