Students were treated to a fascinating and thought-provoking lunchtime session with visiting artist Vanessa van Wyk, whose work blends line, colour and sacred geometry to explore deeper connections between art, nature and humanity.
Vanessa introduced students to the idea that geometric art is far more than pattern and decoration. It can be seen as a visual language, rich with symbols and meaning, passed down through generations. Drawing on influences from cultures around the world, she shared several of her paintings, including her ‘Beads and Cultures’ mandala, explaining how symbols such as feathers and colours like turquoise hold different meanings across societies, yet ultimately point to a shared human experience. Her message was clear and powerful: despite our differences, we are all connected: “we all belong to the same Earth.”
The talk also explored the deep links between art and mathematics. Vanessa spoke about geometric principles found throughout history and nature — from ancient Egyptian patterns to concepts such as Platonic solids, fractals and Metatron’s Cube. Students were intrigued by the idea that these patterns repeat infinitely, appearing not only in mathematics but in natural forms, sound waves and even the rhythms of music. As Vanessa explained, “geometry is everywhere — even in the gravity waves in water.”
Students were particularly interested in how this way of seeing the world shapes Vanessa’s own life and artistic process. In a thoughtful question, Lottie in Year 9 asked whether the spiritual meanings behind Vanessa’s work influence how she lives. Vanessa explained that they do — recognising patterns in the world helps her see life with greater depth and significance. When asked about her favourite piece, Vanessa spoke about her painting of a bison, highlighting its significance as a keystone species.
Alongside the talk, students took part in a hands-on workshop, creating their own mandalas using a personalised colour code based on the letters of their names. This produced a wonderful range of unique and meaningful outcomes, each reflecting the individuality of its creator while linking back to the shared themes explored in the session.
Vanessa also shared insights into her own practice, including how she uses the rhythm of her breathing to guide the precision of her lines, and how inspiration can emerge from everyday moments — even spotting a yin-yang shape while frying eggs prompted reflections on balance and harmony.
This was an inspiring session that encouraged students to look more closely at the world around them, to recognise patterns, and to reflect on the deeper connections between art, science and humanity.