What makes a design or structure beautiful?

That’s the subject that will be explored as part of the annual A Level Mathematics Symposium, organised by the Isle of Man Mathematical Society.

Guest speaker, Professor Sarah Hart from the Birkbeck University of London, will give a talk titled ’Symmetry, Art and Mathematics’.

The talk is open to the public and takes place at the Professional Development Centre, Santon Old School, Santon, on Thursday, October 17, at 7pm.

The symposium, for students from all of the island’s secondary schools, takes place at Ballakermeen High School the following day.

During the talk, Professor Hart will look at examples of symmetry in art and design, and discuss theories about why symmetry is so pleasing to the eye, as well as some of the mathematics that arises from it.

She will then take a look at the work of artist M.C. Escher, whose interactions with the mathematician Donald Coxeter led to a greater understanding and inspired new ideas on both sides.

The event is sponsored by Canada Life International.

The Isle of Man Mathematical Society has been running for more than 20 years and brings together people who have an interest in mathematics. It organises monthly talks as well as maths competitions for primary school pupils.