Spirit and practicality: An analysis of the mathematical turn in early 20th century graphic art

Abstract

This study delves into the convergence of mathematical and graphic art styles in the early twentieth century, amidst significant technological advancements and industrial growth. Analyzing how these advancements influenced graphic art evolution, it identifies distinct genres like Cubism, Neo-Modernism, Suprematism, Constructivism, and Concrete Art. It explores how spirituality and practicality shaped these movements, emphasizing the role of mathematical principles in forming their formal languages and visual expressions. Through a multidisciplinary approach, melding art history with mathematical analysis, it uncovers mathematical commonalities across diverse artistic genres. The study unravels the intricate relationship between artistic innovation and mathematical logic, offering fresh insights into the symbiotic bond between art and science during this transformative era. It enhances comprehension of early twentieth-century graphic arts and contributes to discussions on the impact of technological and mathematical concepts on creative practice, relevant for contemporary graphic arts research and understanding the historical roots of modern creative paradigms.