Rotational Symmetry: from the Maskworx Magic Box

Symmetry is a way that units of pattern are organised. A pattern is symmetric if you can copy it, move it to a new location or orientation, and place it so it exactly matches the original. There are many two-dimensional symmetries but here we will examine Rotational Symmetry - using masks in repetition.

Rotational Symmetry occurs when a series of masks is rotated around a center point. The number of repeated elements can vary. In this case there are seven winter carnival masks repeated until a new image is formed which resembles a 'snowflake', a good example of rotational symmetry found in the natural world.

Mirror Symmetry: from the Maskworx Magic Box

Symmetry is a way that units of pattern are organized. A pattern is symmetric if you can copy it, move it to a new location or orientation, and place it so it exactly matches the original. There are many two-dimensional symmetries but here we will examine Mirror Symmetry - (masks and mirrors often work well together)

Mirror or reflection symmetry divides the mask design into halves that are mirror images. The axis can be located either vertically (most common) or horizontally. The human face naturally has symmetry that's why it works so well with masks! In the natural world, butterflies are a good example of mirror symmetry.