Crystal and Dragon: The Cosmic Dance of Symmetry and Chaos in Nature, Art and Consciousness [Paperback]

David Wade (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: May 1, 1993

 
We live in a universe of apparent dualities: light and darkness, reason and romance, order and chaos. Exploring the interplay of form and energy, David Wade takes the reader on a journey through the world of successive ages--from Plato's conception of the ideal form and the ancient Chinese philosophy of change to the modern scientific view of structure and indeterminacy as embodied in the laws of physics. 

The author shows us how perceptions about the nature of the universe are reflected in the art of of a given period. He details the form and fluidity of prehistoric art, the crystalline order of Islamic patterns, and the subtlety and vitality of Chinese landscapes and calligraphy.

Editorial Reviews

Review

"By reintroducing us to the Pythagorean world of number and pattern, David Wade anticipates the coming synthesis of traditional philosophy and modern science which will effectively amount to a new world order. . . we leave behind us the world of competitiveness and (reactionary behavior) and are led towards the higher reality where every element in Creation enjoys its rightful place and contributes to universal harmony."
(From the Introduction by John Michell )

"Engrossing for anyone wanting to make up-to-date connections between science, mathematics, art, philosophy, and religion. Everything is explained in a way that is fresh, detailed, comprehensible, and awe-inspiring . . . All in all, this book is the work of a renaissance man who has encompassed many spheres of knowledge. It is an inspirational feast for the eye and the mind and would make an instructive present for almost everyone from teenagers upward."
(Social Inventions Journal )

About the Author

The author of Pattern in Islamic Art and Geometric Patterns and Borders, David Wade has had a lifelong interest in design and science and has established a number of businesses related to architectural design. After traveling extensively in the Far East, he now lives in Wales. 

Product Details

• Paperback: 288 pages
• Publisher: Destiny Books (May 1, 1993)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0892814047
• ISBN-13: 978-0892814046
• Product Dimensions: 11 x 8 x 0.8 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.7 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,858,666 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

4 of 4 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars The Title Says It All, March 8, 2007

By 

J. Braun (new york city) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Crystal and Dragon: The Cosmic Dance of Symmetry and Chaos in Nature, Art and Consciousness (Paperback)

I buy a lot of books about these current theories about the brain, consciousness, the cosmos...and how it all relates to art and creativity.
This book is especially good in bringing all of those together...following threads in many directions...and keeping them all connected by common idea of Symmetry. Definitely grounded on scientific information as well as knowledge of the symbolic, spiritual, mystical, and artistic associations. The author has an enthusiasm about this subject that is evident, and he wants to explain his insights and broad views in a way that will be clear and interesting. Excellent book.