Math Whittaker - Beyond Surfaces: Applying Intrinsic Geometry Processing in Art and Design

Recorded at CDFAM Amsterdam, 2025While computational tools have revolutionized design, many approaches focus on explicit modeling of form. This presentation delves deeper, exploring the creative application of intrinsic geometry processing properties – characteristics inherent to a surface regardless of its embedding in space. These techniques are typically confined to mathematics or specialized engineering domains, however looking this presentation will look at their practical use in art and design.Key concepts such as the generation and application of smooth vector fields on complex meshes (illustrated through a personal jewelry design project), the use of the cotan Laplacian for simulating surface phenomena or achieving specific smoothing effects, and the deployment of reaction-diffusion systems to generate intricate, organic patterns directly on geometry will be examined.This talk aims to illustrate these powerful methods and demonstrate how leveraging the inherent mathematical structure of shapes can unlock novel aesthetic possibilities, sophisticated surface treatments, and approaches for design expression beyond conventional digital craft. Attendees will gain insight into applying these advanced computational techniques to enhance their own creative explorations. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.designforam.com