Images designs are derivatives of ancient designs. The designs are based on various geometrical systems; systems that historically provided frameworks for architectural form, symbolism, dance, language and hidden communication. The systems were used to stimulate the imagination, enhance the senses, and transport the experiencer to new horizons of thought and feeling. Within these traditions geometrical forms were developed to enhance perception and they stand in contrast to current uses of geometry - to provide utilitarian form and space. Please visit the section, “Traditions.”

Images and Altair designs were created to stimulate the visual imagination. When you look at the designs, relax your vision, and look at the design without staring. You might see large or small images, animals, faces, complete scenes, or abstract patterns. You might also try to find images - sort of make them up as you look at the designs. Any shape that you find can be found again and again; same way up, but also rotated and reflected. So, if you see a bird, then you might see if you can find it again, but you might also find a tree, or maybe a cat. The designs are repeated so you can explore the same design in different ways.

You can color within lines or across them. You can draw along the lines, and paths, that you see. You can use shading, textures, or solid colors. If you’re good with colors you will not need any help, but, if you are not so confident, then limiting the number of colors you use, using different tones of one color for example, or grouping the colors that you use, before coloring, might help. If you color across lines then images can be created much more quickly.

Felt pens, colored pencils, and pastels, all work really well. You might even try paints. Some people have copied the designs, sometimes enlarging them, onto paper, fabric, wood, or canvas, – and end designs have been framed, made into table mats, greeting cards, decorations, and given as presents.