The geometric theorems of Almada Negreiros

Abstract

In the 20th century, some artists took to using mathematical concepts (such as the golden ratio) in their works, in the belief that these would encapsulate a certain form of universal beauty. Portuguese artist Almada Negreiros was among them. However, he did more than absorb mathematical elements, he actually proved some mathematical results about them. This paper addresses some of these discoveries, setting them in the context of the author’s views on mathematics and art.