Shading Techniques & Mathematical Analysis of Circles through the art of Jock Macdonald

Jock Macdonald (1897–1960) was one of the most radical artists in Canada in the mid-twentieth century. In the 1930s he began experimenting with abstraction, a quest that led him to many different disciplines. As author Joyce Zemans has noted, he was “guided by the most current discussions of art and aesthetics and of mathematical and scientific theories.” In the spirit of Macdonald’s works, the activities in this guide connect visual arts and mathematics. This connection will make Macdonald’s art more engaging for students and inspire a creative, personalized approach to understanding mathematical concepts of circles. Visual arts students will develop an understanding of Macdonald as they learn about circles and experiment with new materials. The art activities in this guide are meant to encourage experimentation without a requirement of previous experience.