Geometric shapes that generate architectural forms

The study, arising from underlying natural geometric shapes that have often influenced planning methods, intends to examine some geometric configurations that derive from seashells. The aim is to interpret the invisible “sinopia” drawings, by the means of instruments of illustration that originate the geometry of these extraordinary natural forms, internally structured by precise patterns. Among these there are some regular helicoid structures; different spirals around which the shellfish build their shells, following a constant compositional rule; a five-pointed star or a pentagon-shaped endoskeleton of echinoderms or sea urchins; and finally, the circular expansion that subtends the geometry of the bivalve shells, symmetrically united by a perfect hinge system. The fascination with shells, doubtlessly linked to beauty and to the perfection of their shapes, is archaic. This can be proved by the attention that man has always paid them, besides having been nourished by their contents, or having kept them as decoration, distinguishing their decorative features for merely functional or symbolic purposes. Iconography clearly demonstrates the presence of seashells, or the use of their shape, on different decorative elements or compositions within architectural and artistic fields. Venus rising from the sea, held up by a shell, was a recurring theme already on Pompeian frescos and on some important paintings, including Botticelli’s famous work of art. Symbolically, the perfection of these naturally created, small structures is enclosed in their shell through which the geometry synthesises the complex mechanism of organic growth. It has inspired many paintings that interpret the purity and the great mystery of the geometric perfection. This latter is often associated with the maternity of the Virgin, as for example it happens in the apse of the Montefeltro family’s Pala di Brera, painted by Piero della Francesca; later it appears many times as motif on ornaments in architecture and decorative art. The quotes about the theme seem to be numerous and variegated, affecting in different ways the story of the art and the architectural planning in which shell geometry can often be found, just as in the case of the famous Guggenheim Museum of Frank Lloyd Wright in New York. In conclusion, in order to give a brief account of the vast and complicated research that is presented, geometries of various species of gastropods will be analysed and compared by means of different illustrative methods of both traditional and digital design, considering their architectural purposes.