A Cornell University mathematician who has figured out how to demonstrate the mathematical qualities of hyperbolic space through crochet models will speak this week at Carleton. Daina Taimina, whose work is on exhibit in the library through June 4, will deliver a lecture titled "Mysteries of the Hyperbolic Plane" at 8 p.m. Thursday, May 18 in the Gould Library Athaneum.
“Crocheting Curves: Shaping the Hyperbolic Plane” will feature Daina Taimina’s unique collection of crochet models. An advanced geometric shape, hyperbolic space has been nearly impossible to create in a physical form. Though William Thurston was able to create a paper model out of thin crescent-shaped annuli in the 1970s, his model proved to be difficult to recreate, intrinsically fragile and able to exhibit only one of the shape’s qualities. Taimina created the first exact physical model of the hyperbolic plane—an achievement many mathematicians thought to be impossible.
Even more impressive, Taimina constructed her model through the art of crochet. Handmade with bright-colored wool, Taimina’s models express complex mathematical ideas, with some models as small as baseballs. Her models, exhibiting both beautiful artistry and complex geometrical theory, currently are featured in the Smithsonian’s collection of American Mathematical Models.
Taimina and her creations have received recognition from mathematicians, artists, educators and fine art collectors. Her collection has been shown in art exhibits in Washington, D.C. and Los Angeles, as well as featured at the Science Cabaret in downtown Ithaca. She also was featured in numerous media outlets, including the New York Times, Discover magazine, National Public Radio and New Scientist magazine. Her presentation at the Kitchen, a performance space in New York City, was sold out, drawing the interest of mathematicians and crochet enthusiasts.
Margaret Pezalla-Granlund, curator of the exhibit, says: “These models are complex, they model real mathematical formulas and principles in geometry, and they’re beautiful, intriguing little sculptures . . . They make hyperbolic geometry visually appealing, accessible and engaging in a way that a math textbook might not.”
The exhibit is supported in part by the Strawbridge Endowment for Textile Arts at Carleton College. Taimina's work was supported in part by a grant from the Cookie Jar Fund of the Institute for Figuring.
Carleton College Gould Library is open daily. The hours are Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 1 a.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to midnight. For more information or disability accommodations, call the library at (507) 646-4260.
For more information on the exhibit, call Pezalla-Granlund at (507) 646-7182.
