A realistic image that digressed from his signature visual paradoxes, M.C. Escher’s “Puddle” woodcutting was inspired by walks he took during breaks from his studio sessions. Integrating advanced mathematical principles into his art, Escher (1898 – 1972), who had no formal mathematical training, created over 2000 drawings, and 448 woodcuts, lithographs, and engravings. Utilizing meticulous planning and numerous trial sketches, Escher kept a detailed system of notations about combinations of shape, color, and symmetrical properties which led to his intuitive use of crystallography, infinity and other complex mathematical principles in his art.

© Art.com