A Fractal is the product of a mathematical process where
a series of ranges and complex number values are assigned to a recursive
mathematical formula.
The formula creates a simple feedback process in which
the same operation is carried out repeatedly, the output of one iteration
becomes the input of the next. The result of each recursion of the formula
assigns a color value to a point in space; the relative accumulation of these
points sometimes result in infinitesimally complex designs; sometimes these
points form shapes which occur in nature; other times the results are
relatively uninteresting.
Some formulas are designed to generate 2D dimensional
images; others produce a more 3D dimensional effect.
Among the most famous mathematicians to develop of this
mathematical ‘art form’ are Gaston Julia & Benoit Mandelbrot.