Patterns

I've been thinking a lot about patterns lately, and why I love them so much. I used to say it was just that I'm a creature of habit, and that I like the predictability of patterns, but somehow that doesn't ring fully true. In fact, in most parts of my life, I seek a balance between the familiar and the unexpected.

For example, when I teach young students colors, they feel comfortable practicing the colors in ABAB patterns or ABCABC patterns, and so making pattern snakes out of blocks or cars or dominoes is an appealing way for them to practice........but, to keep their interest and excitement, I need to also create interactive games which are not as regimented or sequential. So what else is it about patterns that makes me enjoy them?

I'm reminded of tesselations, and so many Escher paintings that I gaze at and just fall into. There's an indescribable mix of relaxation and stimulation that I feel when looking at some of those designs.

Also, I think there's an element of having time to look at the world really closely, rather than being wrapped up in all the events of a day, or week, or month. There's something philosophical and alive about really noticing the world from different angles, and seeking out the patterns.
Here are a few photos I've taken when looking closely at the world. Enjoy!