Finding the Curve

Square editorial illustration of a physical metaphor for mathematical modeling: one long flexible coral strip smoothly bends through slots in four squat wooden pegs of unequal heights, forming a broad asymmetric rising-and-falling curve. Each peg supports the same continuous strip; its free ends extend beyond the outer supports. View from tabletop level, looking slightly upward, making the strip feel monumentally long. Arrange the sculpture diagonally across the lower two-thirds, with generous warm-ivory space above. Pale ochre wooden pegs, coral strip, one deep-blue elongated shadow from low winter sunlight at left. Engraving-inspired linocut silhouette edges combined with expressive hand-drawn marker fills and a few broad imperfect cuts. Exaggerated proportions, simple flat shapes, minimal surface texture, legible at thumbnail size. A sculptural editorial metaphor, not a technical diagram: no axes, grids, arrows or equations. No people, intricate hatching, text, logos or watermarks.