2016 Canada Geometry in Art Beaver 1oz Silver Coin NGC PF 70 UCAM

As digital artists seek to recreate the physical world through dimensional images, modelling techniques based on geometric shapes have spawned an innovative new visual style: low poly art. This final coin in the five-coin Geometry in Art series utilizes the low poly art style to present a contemporary re-interpretation of a profoundly historic Canadian symbol: the beaver (Castor canadensis).

The reverse design by Canadian artist Calder Moore features a stylized portrait of two beavers presented in an eye-catching low poly art style. Extraordinary sculpting, cutting-edge technology and advanced finishing techniques allow each polygon to appear distinct from the other throughout the design. The geometric lines and sharp corners recreate the branches used by the beavers as building material for their dam; yet these same lines are somewhat softened by the colour variation between each polygon, playfully altering our perception of shadow, light and dimension and conveying the rounded shape of each beaver. The half-submerged perspective allows an underwater glimpse of the dam rising up from the mud at the bottom of the pond, while the deep blue sky above adds vibrancy to the green conifers along the rocky cliffs in the background.

A conversation-starter for anyone with an interest in art and dimensional modelling techniques, particularly those used in Canada’s thriving video game development industry.