The hexagon is a six-sided polygon with a unique combination of symbolism, often associated with structure, balance, and harmony.
Natural World
In nature, the hexagon is one of the most efficient shapes for packing and is found in many places. The most famous example is the honeycomb, where bees use hexagons to build their cells. This is because the shape allows for the maximum amount of storage with the least amount of material. This natural occurrence connects the hexagon to ideas of efficiency, community, and cooperation. Similarly, many crystals, such as snowflakes, form in hexagonal patterns, linking the shape to structure, purity, and natural perfection.
Geometry and Mysticism
In geometry, the hexagon is a highly stable shape. It's the strongest polygon for a given perimeter, which is why it's often used in architecture and engineering. This stability lends itself to symbolic meanings of balance, harmony, and interconnectedness. In mystical and spiritual traditions, the hexagon is often associated with the balance of opposing forces. For example, the Star of David is a hexagram (two overlapping triangles that form a hexagon), symbolizing the connection between the divine and the human, or the physical and the spiritual.
Psychology and Design
In art and design, the hexagon can create a sense of order and sophistication. It’s more complex than a square but less busy than a circle, giving it a modern and clean aesthetic. When used repeatedly, as in a pattern or a tessellation, it can evoke a feeling of infinite possibility and interconnected systems. The hexagon in your images, for example, often appears as a focal point or a gateway, which can symbolize a core or a central idea from which everything else emanates.
