Fractal Firebird


Another ‘Frax’ fractal with additional editing. I later found this description of a firebird which seems to be very appropriate for the image.

Slavic folklore… The Firebird is described as a large bird with majestic plumage that glows brightly emitting red, orange, and yellow light, like a bonfire that is just past the turbulent flame. The feathers do not cease glowing if removed, and one feather can light a large room if not concealed. In later iconography, the form of the Firebird is usually that of a smallish fire-colored falcon, complete with a crest on its head and tail feathers with glowing “eyes”. It is beautiful but dangerous, showing no sign of friendliness.

Fractal fantasy


I hope you don’t mind this diversion from the usual photographs of landscapes and seasonal reflections as I explore the strange but fascinating and beautiful world of fractals. I have an IPad app called Frax which generates unique fractals which can then be changed and manipulated by the user.

It’s difficult to describe what a fractal is. Even Professor Google couldn’t produce the idiot’s guide that I needed and searched for. It involves some serious maths which are way over my head. A simplified explanation is that of shapes within shapes within shapes. A fractal is a never-ending pattern. Some sites explain that fractals are found in nature, for example a tree, branches and twigs, a fern and fronds or the spiral on a snail shell. I soon came to the conclusion that I didn’t need to understand ‘what goes on under the bonnet’ in order to enjoy the drive into this fantasy world.

The three examples I have included were further enhanced by the use of Reflect app which, to me, give the illusion of a subterranean lake or the entrance to a cave, just waiting to be explored.

Incidentally, fractal art has been described as trippy art but I assure you that no magic mushrooms were consumed prior to the creation of these!

As is often the case, Mehmet Murat ildan provided the perfect quote for this post…

“Do not always run away from the darkness! Remember the beautiful lakes which are hidden inside the dark caves. In the least expected places, there exists the most beautiful treasures”.