The Dutch artist Mauritis Cornelis Escher (1898-1972) is, perhaps, one of the most highly respected artists in the world of mathematics. He is, without a doubt, one of the most successful contemporary "mathematical artists".

He spent most of his artistic life designing engravings made up of pieces taking the form of living creatures. These engravings which link animals and people together have inspired and amazed people all over the world.

His work can be found in mosaics decorating buildings as well as in engravings, lithographs and watercolours which can be found on the Internet. The official website is http://www.mcescher.com. and another website in Spanish is http://www.uv.es/~buso/escher/escher.html 

His work reflects a deep understanding of geometry. However, the mathematical content of his work is much closer to you than you think. Just look around you, perhaps with a slightly different perspective to normal, and you will start to recognise different areas of maths that you have studied at school. This unit will help you to look at things from a mathematical point of view.

• To recognise the value of the aesthetic qualities of geometric patterns and their importance in the world of art.

• To apply isometric transformations in order to create tessellations autonomously.

• To deepen the students' understanding of the elements related to transformations on the plane.

• To recognise mathematical applications in everyday life and the world we live in.