Lorna Brown

Catastrophe (cusp)

2014
Hand Embroidery
16x16x2”

Catastrophe (cusp) is one of a number of studies in various materials and methods, exploring mathematical models of catastrophe theory in the study of dynamical systems. ‘Catastrophe’, a ‘reversal of what is expected’ has its origins in Greek theatre, with ‘strophe’ being a sudden turn. The chorus would cross the stage from left to right reciting one side of an argument, then turn, to recite the opposite point of view (the antistrophe). Based on images found online, the studies include ‘cusp’, ‘swallowtail’ and ‘umbilical’ formations.