Hyperstar II

Hyperstar II | Hyperbolic Geometry in Aspen and Gold | 2023 Exhibition History: Bridges Mathematical Art Gallery 2023 Original Work • Hyperbolic Geometry • Mixed Media on Wood 19 × 19 × 0.75 inches • Signed Artist's Statement Hyperstar II emerges from a six-month exploration of hyperbolic space—that strange mathematical realm where parallel lines diverge and the sum of angles in a triangle falls short of 180 degrees. This piece represents the culmination of my investigation into how non-Euclidean geometries can be rendered tangible through traditional craft. The work begins with premium Aspen hardwood, chosen for its consistent grain that serves as a quiet foundation for the mathematical complexity above. Through patient application of antique gel stain and hand-rubbed finishes, the wood develops a depth that seems to extend beyond its physical boundaries—an appropriate substrate for geometry that defies our everyday spatial intuition. At the heart of the composition, 24-karat gold leaf creates a luminous focal point, applied using techniques borrowed from medieval illuminated manuscripts. This golden center is not mere ornamentation but represents the mathematical singularity from which the hyperbolic pattern emerges. Surrounding this core, carefully inlaid lapis lazuli and purpurite—stones chosen for their historical significance in artistic traditions—create a dialogue between the mathematical and the mystical. Exhibition and Recognition Bridges Mathematical Art Gallery, 2023 Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia Selected from hundreds of international submissions, Hyperstar II was featured in the 2023 Bridges Mathematical Art Exhibition, the world's premier venue for mathematical art. The annual Bridges conference brings together mathematicians, artists, and educators to explore the deep connections between mathematics and art. The juried selection committee noted the work's "sophisticated integration of hyperbolic geometry with traditional materials" and its "ability to make abstract mathematical concepts viscerally present." Materials and Technique Primary Support: Three-quarter inch Aspen hardwood, selected for grain consistency Surface Treatment: Multiple layers of antique gel stain, hand-rubbed between applications Central Element: 24-karat gold leaf, applied using traditional water gilding technique Mineral Inlay: Lapis lazuli (Afghanistan) and purpurite (Namibia), ground and set in archival medium Protective Coating: Museum-quality UV-resistant satin finish On Hyperbolic Geometry While Euclidean geometry describes the flat world of our immediate experience, hyperbolic geometry reveals spaces of constant negative curvature—surfaces that expand exponentially as one moves outward from any point. First formally described by Bolyai and Lobachevsky in the 1820s, these geometries remained purely theoretical until artists like M.C. Escher demonstrated their visual potential. Hyperstar II continues this tradition, using the Poincaré disk model to map infinite hyperbolic space onto a finite surface. The resulting pattern suggests infinite regression while maintaining perfect mathematical consistency—a visual koan that rewards sustained contemplation. Acquisition Information Provenance Created in the artist's studio, 2023 Exhibited at Bridges Mathematical Art Gallery, Halifax, 2023 Returned to artist's collection Now available for acquisition Condition Excellent. The work has been professionally maintained and shows no signs of wear. The gold leaf retains its original luminosity, and the protective coating ensures long-term stability. Included Documentation Certificate of Authenticity signed by the artist Exhibition catalog from Bridges 2023 Detailed conservation recommendations Professional photography documentation Artist's technical notes on the hyperbolic construction For the Collector Hyperstar II occupies a unique position at the intersection of mathematical rigor and artistic expression. For collectors interested in the dialogue between art and science, this piece offers both intellectual depth and visual sophistication. Its exhibition history at Bridges—where it was viewed by leading mathematicians and artists from around the world—establishes its significance within the mathematical art movement. The work's human scale (19 × 19 inches) makes it suitable for intimate viewing while maintaining sufficient presence for gallery display. The interplay of gold leaf with natural wood and semi-precious stones ensures the piece transforms throughout the day as lighting conditions change, revealing new aspects of its hyperbolic structure. Commissions While Hyperstar II is a unique work, the artist accepts commissions for related explorations of mathematical forms. Each commission represents a collaboration between patron and artist to create a work that resonates with both mathematical precision and personal significance. For commission inquiries: Contact the Studio This is the only available original work in our collection Gallery pricing available for qualified collectors Reference: G0ZEC89HBVG0 To arrange viewing or discuss acquisition: Make an Inquiry