Art-Escher-Shells and Starfish TB

Please drop this item in rural or Premium Member Only caches.  Do not drop it in an urban cache or leave it behind at a caching event.  Transport the bug in the original plastic bag for as long as the bag lasts; this prevents the chain and tag tangling with other items.  Otherwise, take this travel bug anywhere you wish.  No permission needed to leave the U.S.

Maurits Cornelis Escher (1898-1972) was a Dutch graphic artist, most recognized for spatial illusions, impossible buildings, repeating geometric patterns (tessellations), and his incredible techniques in woodcutting and lithography. His work continues to fascinate both young and old across a broad spectrum of interests. His prints are a staple on the walls of university dormitories and faculty offices alike. He was a man studied and greatly appreciated by respected mathematicians, scientists and crystallographers yet he had no formal training in math or science. He was a humble man who considered himself neither an artist or mathematician.

The mathematical influence in his work emerged around 1936, when he was journeying the Mediterranean. Specifically, he became interested in order and symmetry after his journey to the Alhambra. Escher tried to improve upon the art works of the Moors using geometric grids as the basis for his sketches, which he then overlaid with additional designs. Intricate repeating patterns, mathematically complex structures, spatial perspectives all require a "second look." In Escher's work what you see at a glance is most certainly not all there is on display.

This is one of a series of Escher prints purchased and hung by the TB owner.  This particular piece is called Shells and Starfish--note that there are two kinds of shells.