Arcmimika

Arcmimika is a field of practice and study at the intersection of arc-based geometry and mimetic representation. The term combines arc, for curved segments, with mimika (Greek mimesis, imitation). Practitioners explore how curved forms encode motion, growth, or perceptual states and how these forms can evoke or imitate physical, social, or natural processes.

The concept arose in contemporary discussions of computational design and kinetic sculpture, and functions as an organizing framework rather than a fixed methodology, linking practices across media through a shared emphasis on curvature and representational intention.

Principles include using the arc as a basic unit of form, exploring mimetic meaning, evaluating perceptual effects of curvature, and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration. Techniques involve parametric modeling of arc networks, curvature analysis, and animation or simulation of motion along arcs. Applications span sculpture, architectural form-finding, digital art, animation, and interactive installations, with goals such as conveying fluidity, guiding perception of motion, or evoking natural processes.

Criticism notes that the term can be broad or ambiguous, yet proponents view arcmimika as a useful lens for uniting geometry with representation.

See also: mimesis, arc length, parametric design, computational geometry, generative art, kinetic sculpture.