Opt Art. From mathematical optimization to visual design

Linear optimization is a powerful modeling technique for finding the best solution to a problem among a set of available alternatives. It is one of the most important branches of mathematics and computer science today, and it is also a surprisingly rich medium for creating captivating works of art. Opt Art offers readers a fascinating account of linear optimization and its applications, while demonstrating how the field can be used to design visual art.

Robert Bosch offers an engaging and accessible introduction to the geometric, algebraic, and algorithmic foundations of optimization. He presents classic applications, such as the legendary traveling salesman problem, and demonstrates how to adapt them to create the art of optimization—opt art. Each chapter in this beautifully illustrated book begins with a problem or puzzle and demonstrates how to find solutions using a variety of artistic methods and media, including 3D printing, laser cutting, and computer-aided machining. The author focuses on mathematical modeling—transforming a problem into a workable mathematical form, solving it using optimization techniques, and exploring the results, which can be mosaics, line drawings, and even sculptures. All you need is a little high school algebra, geometry, and calculus.