Pythagoras (2) 2006

Mel Bochner's artwork, *Pythagoras (2)*, presents a spiral of squares, a potent symbol that traces back to ancient philosophical and mathematical thought. This spiral evokes the golden ratio, a mathematical concept that appears throughout nature and classical art. The squares, arranged in a Fibonacci sequence, suggest a connection between the tangible, geometric forms and the underlying structure of the cosmos. Think of the nautilus shell, or the arrangement of sunflower seeds – patterns that resonate with a sense of universal harmony. Such numerical harmony offers an echo of the divine order. The emotional impact arises from our subconscious recognition of these natural patterns, hinting at hidden structures governing our world. The spiral is not just a mathematical construct but a profound, recurring motif, reminding us of the cyclical nature of existence.