Halfway to Infinity illustrates the limitations of infinity by bumping into the constraints of material properties and fabrication techniques. Starting with one large 32 foot circle, three recursive patterns that reduce in size by one half were laser cut using Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF) and mounted to the wall. When viewed at full scale the patterns reduce to a dimension smaller than the eye can perceive. At a detailed view, the smooth-edged cutting from the plotter-bed begins to show roughness. The MDF at this minuscule scale is itself either too brittle or is burned away. This work is inspired by Christopher Alexanders’ 15 properties of natural order. Combined dimensions are 24 feet by 30 feet.
Special thanks to the School of Architecture at RPI, Bill Bergman, William Lawson, and Joe Daniele for their help in making the project.