Da Vinci Expert Says Art of One Leonardo Mirrors Math of Another

September 23, 2002

Physicist, artist and Leonardo DaVinci expert Bulent Atalay lectured on two Leonardos: Leonardo DaVinci and Leonardo Fibonacci di Pisa and symmetry in art and nature Sept. 19 at Oklahoma Baptist University as part of the university's September artist series.

Dr. Atalay said Fibonacci, a 13th century mathematician from North Africa, discovered mathematical patterns in nature. Atalay concluded that the proportions found in nature by Fibonacci are mirrored in the composition of many great paintings, such as daVinci's "Mona Lisa" and "The Last Supper."

The Turkish-born physicist currently teaches at Mary Washington College in Virginia. A physics professor for more than 30 years, Atalay is a frequent speaker at the Smithsonian Institute and is the author of several books on art and physics.

The program was funded in part by the DaVinci Institute. The DaVinci is a collaborative venture of Oklahoma Colleges, universities, arts agencies and private contributors to encourage and support the arts and arts education in Oklahoma.