Sacred Fractal Geometry Flowers

Welcome to my gallery art combining sacred geometry symbols, computer generated fractals and flower photography.

My artwork explores the question: Are mathematical fractal patterns a part of nature, or do we see these shapes in nature as our way of understanding its complexity? Perhaps they are nature's way of seeing itself through our eyes? Read more
To explore these ideas, I layer photography, line-drawn mathematical shapes, and computer-generated fractals.

The photos are of flowers with mathematical symmetries. I see fractals everywhere I look, and these pictures represent this experience, which I find fascinating and uplifting.

The line drawings are simple mathematical fractal patterns. They are my attempts to mirror nature and its complexity. I have made these into sacred geometry symbols, as this process feels like I'm creating something more than just the sum of my creativity, like I'm crudely uncovering a truth that has always existed.

The computer-generated fractals are a representation of how we are now using technology to create things that leap beyond our understanding, perhaps something to fear. AI is now a reality, and I have tried to make these dark and more unnatural-looking to remind us that we are a part of nature, not in control of it.

The fractals were generated using software I developed, which you are welcome to use. It's a desktop web application, and you can access it here if you want to use it. Its free.

The photographs were taken on my phone on visits to the RHS Gardens in Manchester, UK, for inspiration as well as in my local area. They have then been combined with sacred geometry symbols in Photoshop to create unique designs.

Learning how to see fractal patterns in flowers

Once you learn to see the fractals in the natural world, you begin to notice them everywhere. One of the most mesmerizing examples of fractal geometry is found in the intricate patterns of flowers. From the spiraling seed heads of sunflowers to the branching structures of petals, these patterns become endlessly captivating. The beautiful symmetry and complexity showcased in flower structures represent stunning manifestations of fractal geometry.

Fractals in Flowers: How They Appear

Many floral structures follow specific mathematical sequences that repeat at varying scales, and these are some aspects to look out for. The Fibonacci Sequence is a fractal pattern you can find in nature. This magical sequence emerges in a series of numbers in which each number is the sum of the two preceding ones: 0, 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, 21, and so on. Many flowers, such as lilies, daisies, and sunflowers, have petals arranged in numbers that align with the Fibonacci sequence. For example, lilies often have 3 petals, periwinkles can have 5, daisies may display 21 or 34 petals, and sunflowers exhibit spiral patterns that adhere to Fibonacci numbers.

1 Golden Ratio

The Fibonacci sequence is also related to the Golden Ratio, a number that frequently appears in structures that are aesthetically pleasing and harmonious. The Golden Ratio, approximately equal to 1.618, is defined as the ratio of a line segment divided into two parts, where the ratio of the whole line to the longer segment equals the ratio of the longer segment to the shorter segment.

2 Spiral Patterns

The seed heads of sunflowers, pinecones, and pineapples display spiral patterns that follow the Fibonacci sequence. These spirals are visual manifestations of fractal geometry, where each spiral contains smaller spirals reflecting the same pattern. The sunflower is a perfect embodiment of Fibonacci in nature. Its seeds are arranged in spirals that radiate outward, with the number of spirals aligning with Fibonacci numbers, allowing for the most efficient packing of seeds.

3 Branching Patterns

The branching structure found in flower petal patterns forms simple fractal designs, where larger branches break off into smaller branches arranged in similar formations. These branching patterns maximize space, ensuring that the flower’s leaves or petals are well-distributed to capture sunlight and attract pollinators. The endless variety and stunning symmetry evoke a sense of wonder, revealing that nature possesses a complexity beyond our understanding.

4 Spiral Patterns

Many flowers exhibit spiral patterns as they grow, forming visible fractal designs. This spiral growth is evident in the arrangement of petals and in the spiral-shaped seed pods that develop as flowers mature, such as the sunflower seed heads at the heart of a flower.

Why Fractals appear in Nature

The occurrence of fractals in nature supports growth, reproduction, and survival in various environments. Fractals maximize space, improve efficiency, and attract pollinators. These floral patterns represent a perfect blend of nature's artistry and mathematical elegance. From the spiral seed heads of sunflowers to the branching petals of daisies, fractals are integral to the floral world. By learning to see these patterns, you can gain a deeper appreciation for how nature organizes and designs its most beautiful creations, fostering a closer connection to the natural world.

Sacred Geometry FAQ

Question: Are flowers fractals?

Answer: Fractal geometry can be observed in the patterns, shapes, and proportions of flowers. Elements such as spirals, branching, and similarity across scales reflect a fundamental universal order.

Question: What does sacred geometry of flowers mean?

Answer: Sacred geometry in nature refers to the patterns, shapes, and proportions found in the natural world that are often associated with symbolic and spiritual meanings. Patterns such as spirals, circles, and the Golden Ratio are believed to be the fundamental building blocks of creation and reflect a universal order.

Question: What patterns do you see in nature?

Answer: Natural patterns include symmetries, branching, spirals, waves, tessellations, and fractals. Early Greek philosophers studied these patterns, with Plato, Pythagoras, and Empedocles attempting to explain order in nature. The modern understanding of visible patterns now includes fractals.

Question: Why do people study fractal geometry in flowers?

Answer: The study of sacred geometry in flowers involves observing how their physical characteristics, such as petal arrangements and symmetry, reflect mathematical principles and patterns found throughout nature. This exploration can be both visually appealing and intellectually stimulating, revealing the underlying order and beauty of the natural world.

Is a flower a fractal?

Yes, some flowers have a fractal quality, as many floral structures exhibit repeating patterns at different scales. This means that the overall shape of a flower, or parts of it, can be described by a mathematical formula that generates similar shapes when viewed at different scales.

Is a sun flower a fractal?

Yes, the spiral center of a sunflower is a fractal, which follows the Fibonacci sequence and the golden angle. This pattern repeats at different scales, exhibiting self-similarity, a key characteristic of fractal geometry.