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The "Golden Section" otherwise known as �phi� represents the application of the "Golden Ratio" 1:1.618.

Golden Section in mathematics, division of a line segment into two segments such that the ratio of the original segment to the larger division is equal to the ratio of the larger division to the smaller division. If c is the original segment, b is the larger division, and a is the smaller division, then c = a + b and c/b = b/a. Thus, b is the geometric mean of a and c; the ratio is known as the Divine Proportion. The Golden Rectangle, whose length and width are the segments of a line divided according to the Golden Section, occupies an important position in painting, sculpture, and architecture, because its proportions have long been considered the most attractive to the eye.

The constructions of regular polygons of 5, 10, and 15 sides depend on the division of a line by the Golden Section. The numerical ratio of the greater segment of the line to the shorter segment as determined by the Golden Section is symbolized by the Greek letter phi and has the approximate value 1.618. It occurs in many widely varying areas of mathematics. For example, in the Fibonacci sequence (the sequence of numbers formed by adding successive members to find the next member�0, 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, � ), the values of the ratios 1, 2/1, 3/2, 5/3, 8/5, 13/8, � approach the value of the Golden Section.

Taken from The Columbia Encyclopedia, Sixth Edition. 2001

introduction

Joshua Bryan�s preivous work has dealt with processes of transformation, expressed in a diverse manner. In 2000/2001 he produced films, installations, paintings, prints and drawings which were linked with a common conceptual origin; his fascination with the way things change and regenerate.

His work focussed on the use of simple or minimal aesthetics, and the rigorous application of mathematical principles of growth, mostly the Golden Ratio, (�phi�, 1-1.618). These compositions communicate on several levels. To the informed viewer the incorporation of the Golden Ratio illumines the conceptual base of the works, prompting the consideration of inevitable processes, nature, beauty, representation and perception etc. Equally valid is the initial and instinctive response. Each piece that incorporates the Golden Ratio has been created with quiet, latent seductive qualities that speak directly to the viewer beyond conscious or reasoned consideration. Many works include abstract geometrical figures, originally created digitally, which allude to both planetary and molecular level activities in a deliberately ambiguous fashion.

His work continues to develop in various dimensions, exploring the use of film projection, sculpture, text pieces and photography.

Two phi Processes

"Artists should depend on inspiration.

Everyone protests that artists are irresponsible; but artists are not concerned with the material world.
I would advice them to turn away from this world and go on a picnic or something. Go into the forest and feel the difference�. Artists are intuitive. They wait for inspiration.

That's what art is about, the intuitive, not the intellectual. Art about ideas but art that comes from inspiration stimulates feelings of happiness, innocence and beauty�.�

Agnes Martin

Joshua Bryan's work elevates �momentary sensations�, often presenting them as equivalent to the experience of religious ecstasy.

Focussing on the words of the Japanese novelist Yukio Mishima and the aesthetics of the museum and place of worship he has created a series of wall presentations and short videos for his degree show exhibition at Edinburgh College of Art, 15-27 June 2002.

His work also engages with the idea functional proportion and has often incorporated natural proportion (the golden ratio) into wall and 3D installed works.

Most recently Joshua Bryan has teamed up with the composer Daniel Williams for to create two new short videos Thirst and The Sash Unwinding.