spirals

Spirals can be endlessly fascinating. This simple shape is found throughout nature, from snail shells to uncurling ferns, raging tornados to swirling galaxies. Spirals are part of our DNA. Literally!

It must be no surprise, then, that they have inspired so many artists. Van Gogh saw spirals in stars and cypress trees, whilst Klimt decorated his paintings with gold spirals. Botanical artists are intimate with spirals in nature, and Leonardo da Vinci used them to design helicopters and staircases. Among more modern artists, Stephanie Law incorporates spirals into many of her whimsical paintings, and Louise Bourgeoise has explored how different spirals can be from each other in her woodcuts.

Sections from: Starry Night by Van Gogh; Tree of Life by Klimt;
Spirals by Louise Bougeoise; Ladybug by Stephanie Law. 

There are some lovely books that showcase spiralling art, and this is one of my favourites. Although it is a picture book aimed at young children, the lino cut prints are full of detail and draw me in to the worlds they depict.

A simple exploration is simply to draw a spiral shape and use chalk and oil pastels to add colour. Pastels blend beautifully, and the colours are so vibrant. We added in some paint in metallic colours, inspired by Klimt, and produced some absorbing art. 

By L, aged 7

If you want to take this a step further, cut out your spiral and hang it to make a pretty spinning mobile.

If you love to draw from life, pick an object that spirals. Pine cones, sunflower centres, honeysuckle tendrils, shells, cacti… there are so many things to choose from! It is amazing how mathematical these natural structures are. This is what Leonardo da Vinci discovered and built upon when designing staircases based on the insides of shells.

How might you incorporate spirals into your art?