Illustrating Mathematics

Geodesic Boards

A set of CNC-carved wooden boards that make geodesic curves on mathematical surfaces tangible and touchable. Joint work with Steve Trettel

Misshapen Chaos (of Well Seeming Forms)

The logistic map revealed in clay, image and sound.

Holonomy Blocks

An interactive installation, with Henry Segerman. An arrow slidesaround a closed path on three carved wooden surfaces.

The Art of Illustrating Mathematics

An editorial-essay co-authored with Henry Segerman arguing that illustration, defined broadly as communicating mathematical ideas through perception and experience, is both a research tool and an inherently artistic act. Drawing on Klee's notion that art makes visible what cannot otherwise be seen, the paper argues that any illustration intended to communicate deep mathematical intuition is artistic even without artistic intent. It closes by noting that illustration is widely enjoyed but systematically undervalued, and calls for spaces that celebrate it on its own terms.

Creation: Between Art and Mathematics

A group exhibition of fourteen projects at the Maison Poincaré part of the Institut Henri Poincaré, Paris.

ICERM Illustrating Mathematics Exhibition

Exhibited three works during the ICERM semester programme: "Curvahedra" (cut Mylar), "Three studies in CNC milling" (CNC milled wood), and "Pseudosphere" (CNC milled wood).

IHP Trimester: Illustration as a Mathematical Research Technique

Trimester at Institut Henri Poincaré, Paris, examining illustration as a mathematical research techniques. I was a co-roganiser.

On the Importance of Illustration for Mathematical Research

Making the case that illustration is central to mathematical research and discovery, in Notices of the AMS.

Lasercut Penrose Tiles

David Bailey's version of the tiles, cut in wood or plastic.