A pattern is a repeating decorative design, and the realm of nature is full of them. It seems trivial but it is quite surprising to observe how many design matrices exist around us that were created without any human intervention.
Throughout history patterns have always influenced art and architecture. Photography is the only medium that can offer patterns in a two-dimensional way that serves to inspire artists and designers. Many patterns have reached such a high level of design that they now represent an infinite and timeless creative resource. In this gallery of natural patterns, what is your pick?
Porcelain fungus (Oudemansiella mucida) clusters of fungi / mushrooms growing on fallen and rotting beech trunk in forest in autumn. Photo: Philippe Clément/Arterra / UIG
Interior of a pearly nautilus shell, also known as chambered nautilus (Nautilus Pompilius). Native to seas of Indo-Pacific. Photo: Wild Horizons/UIG
Ginshadan sand garden at Ginkaku-ji (Zen Temple of Silver Pavilion), Kyoto, Japan. Photo: Petr Svarc/UIG