The world is full of squares, circles, triangles which can be seen most everywhere. Boston Massachusetts is one of many cities filled with beautiful geometric, architectural designs both old and new. For this week’s Lens-Artists Photo Challenge, Patti wants us to focus on geometry—shapes that are visually interesting and form a pattern or rhythm. She suggests we think about geometry and the many examples seen everyday that we might not notice. Be sure to check out her post here.
Once one understands what each geometric shape symbolizes it is easier to understand why certain shapes are associated with certain buildings. Rectangles or Squares represent Balance and Tradition; Circles – Infinity, Protection, and Femininity; Triangles – Stability, Energy, and Aggression; Rhombus – Vibrant and Contemporary; Hexagon – Unity and Balance.
With so many examples available, it was hard to select only a few. I’ll start though with this skyscraper which is Boston’s tenth-tallest building and was awarded the 2002 bronze Emporis Skyscraper Award. It is part of the Prudential Tower complex on 111 Huntington Avenue.
Another example is inside The Christian Science Church’s large-domed extension of The Mother Church where the world’s largest Aeolian-Skinner pipe organ is located. This organ has a total of 13,384 pipes, ranging from the size of a pencil to 32 feet in length and played from a four-manual console.
The organ pipes are surrounded by beautiful geometric designs and patterns. As well as the ceiling decoration in the same sanctuary.
The Massachusetts Statehouse (1787) is easily recognized by its gold dome. Like much of the older architecture in Boston the exterior design is made up of multiple geometric shapes.
Faneuil Hall, built in 1742, became known as the “Cradle of Liberty” of the Revolution. It also was famous for hosting America’s first town meeting. This building played an influential role in the politics of the American Revolution and also an integral role in Boston’s Underground Railroad network.
Founded in 1733, the Trinity Church continues to hold regular church services for their congregation of approximately 4,000 households. It is located in the Back Bay and is a parish of the Episcopal Diocese of Massachusetts.
The second picture below is interesting in that so many multiple geometric shapes and patterns are revealed in the Church’s reflection.
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“I think the universe is pure geometry – basically, a beautiful shape twisting around and dancing over space-time.” – Antony Garrett Lisi