Mylar reflections

Monday, January 26th, 2009 | Gallery, Workshop | Written by Luigi

Tibetan-style debating

Yesterday we started our exploration of light, reflection, and caustics, looking through an “aesthetic” lens. We started by asking the monks to place a small mirror on the wall, and stand to one side (away from the wall) with a flashlight. They made predictions about where the reflection would fall on the other side, then explained their reasoning before turning on the flashlight and testing their theories.

Measuring angles with string Measuring by line of sight

All developed initial theories, a few created crude measuring devices, and others made guesses. All were engaged in lively debate (as is natural for this group) before testing their theories.

Hitting the screen Schematics on paper

Following the initial activity we handed each of them small sheets of Mylar (a highly reflective, flexible material), and rolled Mylar in a cardboard tube. They proceeded to explore the reflections generated by these materials when lit by their flashlight, and outdoors in the sunlight. Observations were made, new theories generated, and the session ended with a shared discussion about the highly complex, and beautiful reflections.

Monk in the Mylar cardboard reflections Mylar reflections in the sun


Aiming the reflection at the ceiling Mylar reflections fill the room

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4 Comments to Mylar reflections

Becky Carroll
January 26, 2009

Fabulous! Thanks for sharing and taking us all along on your journey!

Anonymous
January 27, 2009

the light reflections are really stunning. what a special place + experience for all involved

Indre
January 27, 2009

the light reflections are really stunning. what an amazing experience for all involved.

Ryan J.
January 27, 2009

All of the photos are totally sweet but I especially love the series of six where the two monks are debating with each other. Its amazing that the thoughts are so clear yet complex without words needed. I showed your blog to some of our workshop participant today and they literally made the sound when someone shows you that a bubble can travel up the tornado or when the caternary arch rises. Pure amazement and incredulousness at the photos of the monks working on the automata. Thanks for sharing and keep up the good work.

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