I’m fascinated by the geometrical patterns in islamic art and architecture. Trying to reproduce them with flash, I found that you can animate some of them nicely. And they are very mesmerizing! ;-)
From one center circle, 6 more circles move outwards. Each of these produce 6 more circles themselves.
In esoterics, this pattern is called “Flower of Life”
In some of the patterns, the base angle is a degree of freedom. You can animate it and always get a “working” pattern.
The following patterns are based on a repeatable base grid, such as triangle, square or hexagon. The base grid itself is hidden. Instead, an animated X shape is positioned on the center of every edge.
On a square base.
On a hexagonal base.
On the same hexagonal base, with longer strokes.
Click to see the animation.
In the above examples, I used 2 rotating “X” lines centered at each edge of the (invisible) base pattern. Now to get more variations, I attach another rotating line at the ends of each first rotating lines. The effect is the “broken” line found in many islamic patterns. In the following example I use different speeds for 1st-level and 2nd-level rotations, to achieve a pattern that does not repeat for some time.
Next, I use the same principle on a centered (non-repeating) pattern. Base grid is an octagon surrounded by petagons. This base grid is very popular in islamic art.
And then the same with the “broken line”, by adding another rotating line to the ends of the first “X” animation.
I would love to hear from others who have done similar animations.
And for fame and glory, I would love to do an installation in a modern mosque, using projectors to cover the interior with such patterns. :-)
2 Comments, Comment or Ping
Jon Flory Schrock
These are awesome! I haven’t done any such animation so I don’t have anything to “pass on” to you. All my experience has been with drawings/paintings. I think you should look into what it would take to make a program to turn these into screensavers.
April 5th, 2010
Jon Flory Schrock
These are awesome! I haven’t done any such animation so I don’t have anything to “pass on” to you. All my experience has been with drawings/paintings. I think you should look into what it would take to make a program to turn these into screensavers.
April 5th, 2010
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