Tessellations: How to Create Them

Interlocking geometric shapes that reproduce the same pattern infinitely, tessellations are best known to us through the intricate art of M.C. Escher, who was inspired by the Moorish mosaics in The Alhambra. Here, instructor Jim McNeill shows viewers how to draw a simple design on an index card and use the techniques of translation, rotation and reflection, to recreate the image in striking ways, resulting in a finished tessellation. Given the humble materials required for the project (paper, glue, scissors, a ruler), even the most hard-pressed school district or struggling artist should be able to afford the basics. While McNeill demonstrates realistic designs, he emphasizes that simple abstract designs are best for beginners, and the tape concludes with examples of just that--elementary school student-made tessellations born of a very impressive group effort indeed. Highly recommended. Aud: I, J, H, C, P. (R. Reagan)