The artwork titled “Symmetry Watercolor 55 Fish,” created by M.C. Escher in 1942, is an exemplary piece within the Op Art movement, specifically recognized for its genre of tessellation. This piece demonstrates a meticulous arrangement of interlocking fish designs, showcasing Escher’s masterful skill in creating visually complex patterns that evoke a sense of harmony and balance.
In the artwork, one can observe a repetitive pattern of fish figures, meticulously aligned to create a seamless visual flow. The fish are rendered in hues of yellow, blue, and orange, with each color alternating to enhance the sense of symmetry and rhythmic movement. The fish shapes interlock perfectly, embodying the concept of tessellation, where each element fits precisely with its neighbors to form an intricate, continuous pattern. The careful attention to geometric alignment and color contrast lends the artwork a mesmerizing quality, drawing the viewer’s eye across the composition in an unending loop. M.C. Escher’s intricate design captures the essence of mathematical art, illustrating his profound understanding of symmetry and structure.