Pi Day Art and Mathemalchemy Fun

Pi, Pastries, and "Mathemalchemy": A Mathematical Journey

Duke University mathematician Ingrid Daubechies excels in diverse areas. Her passion extends beyond traditional mathematics into the realm of culinary arts. She enjoys baking pastries shaped like the mathematical constant pi. Pi represents the ratio of a circle's circumference to its diameter, approximately 3.14159. While standard sugar cookie dough works well, Dr. Daubechies prefers a savoury recipe. Her preferred recipe includes Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, thyme, and marjoram.

In 2023, she designed a special pi-shaped cookie cutter. This cutter maximises dough usage, theoretically leaving no waste. Crumbs, she admits, prevent perfect execution in practice. Dr. Daubechies plans to bake these pi-themed cookies for Pi Day. Pi Day falls on March 14th (3/14). This date also marks the International Day of Mathematics. The 2025 theme celebrates mathematics, art, and ingenuity.

Image Credit - NY Times

"Mathemalchemy": Where Equations Inspire Creativity

This year, Dr. Daubechies travels to the University of Quebec in Montreal for Pi Day. She will lead explorations of "Mathemalchemy." "Mathemalchemy" is a mobile, interactive exhibition blending mathematics and art. Dr. Daubechies has championed this project for five years. She will also deliver a public lecture titled "Mathematical Solutions for Art Curators."

This presentation forms part of the "Mathemalchemy" diorama, which spans 20 feet in length, 10 feet in width, and 9.5 feet in height. It represents a collaboration with Quebec fibre artist Dominique Ehrmann. Numerous other mathematically inclined artists and artistic mathematicians contributed to this work as well.

The diorama made its first appearance in 2022 at the National Academy of Sciences in Washington, D.C. Since then, it has travelled to various locations. "Mathemalchemy" merges mathematics and art in an imaginative way. It offers a captivating experience for both math enthusiasts and sceptics.

A Multifaceted Exploration of Mathematical Art

This creative project encompasses a wide range of art forms, including ceramics, beadwork, embroidery, crochet, leatherwork and knitting. Felting, origami, painting, clay sculpting, 3D printing, and quilting also feature. Additionally, the project includes sewing, stained-glass work, metal welding, illumination, spherical braiding, weaving, wire shaping, and woodworking.

During its 2024 stay at New York's National Museum of Mathematics on Fifth Avenue, a visitor at the opening described the exhibit as having a whimsical, fairytale-like atmosphere. The project's tagline encapsulates its essence: "Mathemalchemy: Where Equations Inspire Creativity." Later in 2024, the Juniata College Art Museum in Huntingdon, Pennsylvania, helped launch a comic book adaptation of the project, translated into different languages.

In May, the exhibit moved to the Navajo Nation Museum in Arizona. Fundraising efforts enabled the "Mathemalchemy" team to raise $25,000 to support this specific exhibition. As a token of appreciation, the project's funders each received a unique pi-shaped cookie cutter. Pi-shaped baked goods and champagne are a staple at the project's opening celebrations.

Image Credit - NY Times

Arnold the Cat and the Baker's Function

"Mathemalchemy" showcases a variety of fascinating exhibits. One piece features a cat-like baker named Arnold displaying freshly baked pi-themed pastries. This artwork references Vladimir Arnold, a mathematician known partly for his geometric principle called "Arnold's cat transformation."

This principle involves manipulating a simple image of a cat's face. Repeatedly stretching, skewing, and altering this image seemingly scrambles the visual information into individual pixels, appearing almost random yet uniformly distributed. Eventually, the original image re-emerges. The Arnold transformation has practical applications in secure communications and data encryption.

This method resembles a process called the "baker's function." This mathematical procedure mirrors the process of preparing layered pastry—it involves dividing, restacking, and folding the dough.

Image Credit - NY Times

Tess the Tortoise and Zeno's Paradox

Another exhibit presents an ornamental turtle named Tess navigating "Zeno's Way." Tess carries a Sierpinski kite, a tetrahedral toy with a tessellated fractal surface. Accompanying descriptions explain Tess's journey—she must complete an infinite number of steps to reach her destination.

This relates to Zeno's paradoxes, ancient philosophical problems exploring the concepts of infinity, motion, and division. This mathematical theme pervades "Mathemalchemy." Two arches composed entirely of circular elements illustrate another concept—the arrangement suggests that the number of constituent elements approaches a theoretical limit.

One arch ascends towards the sky, while the other descends towards a water-filled basin that flows through the "Mathemalchemy" installation.

The spheres adorning this piece, crafted using the ancient Japanese technique of temari, are painted and arranged to represent twin prime numbers—pairs of prime numbers that differ by two. Examples include 3 and 5, 5 and 7, and 11 and 13. The twin prime conjecture, an unproven mathematical theory, posits that there are infinitely many twin prime pairs.

Image Credit - NY Times

Piecing Together "Mathemalchemy": A Synthesis of Art and Mathematics

The "Mathemalchemy" project extends beyond its physical diorama, offering virtual explorations and supplementary materials. A dedicated website provides detailed explanations of the mathematical concepts embedded within the artwork, artist biographies, and insights into the fabrication process. QR codes placed throughout the physical exhibit link directly to specific sections of the website, enabling visitors to delve deeper into the themes presented. This digital component enhances accessibility, allowing engagement with "Mathemalchemy" from anywhere in the world. This blend of physical and digital experiences creates a richer, more layered understanding of the connections between mathematics and art. A comic book adaptation, translated into multiple languages, further broadens the project's reach and introduces its concepts to a younger audience.

Image Credit - NY Times

"Mathemalchemy": A Creative Journey of Resilience and Mathematical Discovery

The project's creation unfolded under unique circumstances. Initially conceived before the COVID-19 pandemic, the project faced unexpected challenges as in-person collaboration became impossible. The team adapted by embracing remote work, using video conferencing to hold workshops, refine their vision, and continue the creative process. This shift to a virtual workspace ultimately allowed for more in-depth storytelling and concept development. The additional time afforded by the pandemic allowed for intricate detailing and nuanced narratives within the diorama. This resilience underscores the dedication and collaborative spirit of the "Mathemalchemy" team.

"Mathemalchemy" has resonated with diverse audiences throughout its travels. From scientists and mathematicians at the National Academy of Sciences to visitors at the National Museum of Mathematics, the exhibit sparks joy, laughter, and a renewed appreciation for the beauty and creativity inherent in mathematics. Children react with particular enthusiasm, their conversations buzzing with excitement as they explore the diorama's intricate details. This positive reception confirms the project's success in making mathematics accessible and engaging for a broad audience, regardless of their mathematical background.

Image Credit - NY Times

"Mathemalchemy": A Visionary Collaboration Bringing Mathematics to Life

The project's success is a testament to the power of collaboration and the shared vision of its creators. Ingrid Daubechies and Dominique Ehrmann, a mathematician and a fiber artist, joined forces to challenge the perception of mathematics as difficult or unapproachable. Their combined expertise, alongside the contributions of numerous other artists and mathematicians, brought "Mathemalchemy" to life. This diverse team, representing a wide range of backgrounds and artistic mediums, created a truly unique and interdisciplinary experience.

The project's core message—that mathematics can be fun, creative, and inspiring—resonates deeply with audiences, making "Mathemalchemy" a remarkable achievement in the world of mathematical art. The project's ongoing fundraising efforts, such as those supporting the Navajo Nation Museum exhibition, demonstrate a commitment to accessibility and community engagement. The pi-shaped cookie cutters presented to donors symbolize the project's playful approach to mathematics and serve as a reminder of the sweet rewards of supporting artistic and educational endeavors. Champagne and pi-themed treats at opening celebrations further reinforce the project’s festive and welcoming atmosphere.

This combination of art, mathematics, community engagement, and celebratory spirit defines the essence of the "Mathemalchemy" project.

Expanding the Universe of "Mathemalchemy": Education and Engagement

Beyond its captivating exhibits, "Mathemalchemy" fosters educational opportunities and community engagement. Workshops designed for various age groups, from elementary school students to adults, provide hands-on experiences with mathematical concepts. Participants explore topics such as fractals, tessellations, and topology through artistic mediums like origami, weaving, and drawing. These interactive workshops translate complex mathematical ideas into tangible, engaging activities, encouraging a deeper understanding and appreciation for the subject. The workshops demonstrate that mathematical principles underpin many artistic creations, fostering a new perspective on both disciplines. Furthermore, teacher training sessions equip educators with the tools and resources to integrate "Mathemalchemy" principles into their classrooms. This expands the project's reach, enriching mathematical education and inspiring the next generation of mathematicians and artists.

Image Credit - NY Times

"Mathemalchemy": Making Mathematics Accessible Through Art and Education

The "Mathemalchemy" experience is designed to be accessible to individuals of all mathematical backgrounds. Whether a seasoned mathematician or someone who has always felt intimidated by the subject, the exhibit provides a welcoming and engaging environment. The project's website offers a variety of resources, including videos, articles, and interactive modules, allowing visitors to engage with mathematical concepts at their own pace and comfort level. This inclusivity underscores the project's core belief that mathematics is for everyone, regardless of prior knowledge or experience. The playful and interactive nature of the exhibit encourages exploration and experimentation, breaking down barriers and fostering a sense of curiosity and wonder. This inclusive approach aims to demystify mathematics and present it as a subject of beauty, creativity, and wonder.

The "Mathemalchemy" project thrives through educational initiatives and community engagement, complementing its captivating exhibits. Workshops cater to diverse age groups, from elementary school children to adults, offering hands-on experiences with mathematical concepts. Participants explore fractals, tessellations, and topology through artistic mediums like origami, weaving, and drawing. These interactive workshops make complex mathematical ideas tangible and engaging, promoting deeper understanding and appreciation for mathematics. They highlight how mathematical principles underpin many artistic creations, fostering a new perspective on both disciplines. Teacher training sessions further equip educators with the tools and resources to incorporate "Mathemalchemy" principles into classrooms, expanding the project's reach and inspiring future mathematicians and artists.

Image Credit - NY Times

Expanding Mathematical Accessibility: "Mathemalchemy's" Inclusive Approach

Accessibility is a core principle of "Mathemalchemy," ensuring a welcoming environment for individuals of all mathematical backgrounds. The project's website provides various resources, including videos, articles, and interactive modules, empowering visitors to explore mathematical concepts at their own pace. The playful and interactive nature of the exhibit encourages exploration and experimentation, breaking down barriers and fostering curiosity. This inclusive approach demystifies mathematics and showcases its beauty, creativity, and wonder.

The project's impact extends beyond its physical presence, offering virtual explorations and supplementary materials. A dedicated website provides detailed explanations of the mathematical concepts embedded in the artwork, artist biographies, and insights into the fabrication process. QR codes within the physical exhibit link directly to specific website sections, allowing visitors to delve deeper into the themes. This digital component enhances accessibility, enabling global engagement with "Mathemalchemy." The blend of physical and digital experiences creates a richer, more layered understanding of the connections between mathematics and art. A multilingual comic book adaptation broadens the project's reach and introduces its concepts to a younger audience.

Image Credit - NY Times

"Mathemalchemy": A Celebration of Mathematics, Art, and Collaboration

"Mathemalchemy's" development navigated unique circumstances. Conceived before the COVID-19 pandemic, the project faced unexpected challenges as in-person collaboration became impossible. The team adapted by embracing remote work and video conferencing for workshops, refining their vision, and continuing the creative process. This virtual workspace ultimately allowed for more in-depth storytelling and concept development. The additional time afforded by the pandemic enhanced intricate detailing and nuanced narratives within the diorama. This resilience demonstrates the dedication and collaborative spirit of the "Mathemalchemy" team.

The project has resonated with diverse audiences throughout its travels. From scientists and mathematicians to visitors at mathematics museums, "Mathemalchemy" sparks joy, laughter, and a renewed appreciation for mathematics' inherent beauty and creativity. Children react with particular enthusiasm, excitedly exploring the diorama's intricate details. This positive reception confirms its success in making mathematics accessible and engaging for a broad audience, regardless of mathematical background.

"Mathemalchemy" exemplifies the power of collaboration and the shared vision of its creators. The combined expertise of a mathematician and a fiber artist, along with contributions from numerous other artists and mathematicians, brought the project to life. This diverse team, representing a wide range of backgrounds and artistic mediums, created a truly unique and interdisciplinary experience. Its core message - that mathematics can be fun, creative, and inspiring - resonates deeply, making "Mathemalchemy" a remarkable achievement in mathematical art. Ongoing fundraising efforts demonstrate a commitment to accessibility and community engagement. The project's playful approach, evident in details like the pi-shaped cookie cutters gifted to donors, underscores the sweet rewards of supporting artistic and educational endeavors. Champagne and pi-themed treats at opening celebrations reinforce this festive and welcoming atmosphere. This fusion of art, mathematics, community engagement, and celebratory spirit defines the essence of "Mathemalchemy."