UCSC: Porter 34B, Chaos, Fractals, and the Arts, Winter 2013

Abstract

This year the course will be devoted to mathematical images deriving from shamanic rituals. There will be three components: Art History, Chaos and Fractal Math, and Computer Programming. Each class meeting will include sections for each of the three components:
  • Art History will cover the history of the shamanic arts.
  • Chaos and Fractal Math will be devoted to iterated two-dimensional mappings.
  • Computer Programming will cover graphics and music in the NetLogo language.
Prior instances of Porter 34B may be viewed here.

Requirements for passing/grading: Student must complete weekly assignments in all three areas, a midterm in week five, and a class project delivered in the final exam period.

There will be one or two guest speakers who are practicing artists.