axiomatic: the creative process in art and mathematics

process   creative team   events

Inquiries

Our research centers on axioms, objects and concepts considered fundamental by various research fields in mathematics, and then peel away mathematical, philosophical and utilitarian layers of this notion through visual art. An important part of our process is expanding the collaboration to researchers in various fields of mathematics, who are invited to share the idea they consider the most fundamental in their area of research. Participating mathematicians are asked the following questions:

  1. What is a fundamental concept or axiom from mathematics that is important to you/your field? Could you describe it and/or the importance/use of it for non-mathematicians?
  2. How you would visualize/conceptualize this concept; in words, diagrams, images, forms, structures, or in any way you'd like?

Fabrication

With the Ultimaker 3D printer and Glowforge laser cutter available in the Washington Experimental Mathematics Lab we model mathematical visualizations of abstract mathematical fundamental concepts, which then serve as inspiration and a point of departure for making larger and more complex works of mathematical sculpture. The project will be produced in part at the European Ceramic Work Center and at the University of Washington.

Exhibits and podcasts

Our goal is to generate a larger public discussion about the creative process in art and mathematics in the form of a podcast series of interviews and discussions with artists and scientists. We will exhibit our work in January 2017 at the Linda Hodges Gallery and in Spring 2017 at a location to be determined.