Repeated Pattern blog

Upon researching patterns from a variety of decorations, including the Islamic style stained glass window above, I found that patterns have become a very distinct and frequently occurring part of art, both historical and current. They have been used in renaissance illuminated manuscripts, to M.C. Escher artwork, to Islamic style architecture, and in many other works of art. I found that some patterns, such as the one above, are completely symmetrical along a center line, however others have various other axis of symmetry. This seemed to be a good choice because it seems to me that if the artist had used other symmetry lines, the pattern would have become too overwhelming and confusing. Also, the complimentary colors in the pattern above help define the shapes formed, such as the stars and the octagons. These shapes would have been far less clear and defined if only the same blue glass had been used. Even the pattern border around the edges helps accent the larger shapes and colors in the center. I feel that this particular pattern is a very strong piece because of its bold use of color. Possibly because of these color choices and the angles used in the pattern it has a somewhat lively and energetic feel to the piece. Overall, I do like this stained glass window because I find the pattern to be complex enough to be interesting, but not overbearing.