Inversions

by Scott Kim

Shows how to use special calligraphy to create words that can be read rightside up and upside down as well as words that show bilateral symmetry

Genres: Art, Nonfiction, Art Design, Psychology, Mathematics

Paperback

First published November 30, 1980

Reviews

[Scottekim]

I'm the author, so I'm biased. This was the first book of ambigrams (symmetrical lettering). About half the lettering designs still hold up...pretty good for a first time author. I'm eager to make a new version of this book, perhaps for iPad.

[Katy]

Wonderful book relating math, words, and art!

[Andrew Kline]

A really fascinating collection of textual images from artist Scott Kim. Since a name for the style didn't exist, he calls them "inversions," since the goal is to have them legible when rotated on an axis. About half the book is different images, followed by some purpose on his process.

[David Alonzo]

I am fascinated by the art of MC Escher. So . . . I found this book fascinating. Also puzzle lovers would probably love it as well. I am also fascinated by how JS Bach put canons, inventions, and fugues together.

While this book, like all books, is made of words, a large majority of the words can be described as art - visual art. Much of it is easier just to see than to describe or explain. For example if you look at the front cover of the book you will see that “Inversions,” the title of the book, when turned upside down is “Scott Kim,” the name of the author.

[Margaret Shepherd]

This will change how you see letters. For good. Scott Kim invented this idea and then went on to dazzle everyone with his virtuosity. Amazing. I found it in the 1980s thanks to Scientific American. Calligrapher or psychologist, you'll love it.

[Justin]

Worth checking out for the symmetrical proto-black metal 'MerrY ChristmaS' alone. The essays for lack of a better term are breezy fun reads.

[Jenny Schmenny]

If you love M.C. Escher, if you love the alphabet, if you love symmetry or puzzles, check this out. It's beautiful and challenging.