2024 Joint Mathematics Meetings
Beyza Aslan
Artists
Beyza Aslan
Associate Professor of Mathematics
University of North Florida
Jacksonville, FL, USA
Statement
I learned how to crochet in my childhood, but only recently discovered how to make math fun by crocheting mathematical geometry. I get great joy turning abstract mathematical geometry into easy to observe visuals. I find trying to figure out crocheting mathematical details very interesting. My goal is to present the beauty in the intersection of art and mathematics to a larger audience to increase appreciation for both.
Artworks
Islamic Geometric Art
60.0 x 60.0 cm
Polyester yarn
2023
The geometric pattern here, drawn by Paul Marchant, is based on elements of Islamic geometric design typically found in Cairo. The pattern consists of underlying polygons such as hexagons, triangles, squares, dodecagons. In crocheting the different polygons involved, specific stitch numbers are assigned for the degrees of divisions of the polygons - 2 stiches for 60 degrees, 3 stiches for 90 degrees…etc. Different geometries hidden beneath the design are marked by black stitches. Pink lines in the white dodecagon demonstrate how the initial drawing of the design, which lead to the polygons we observe, was made. Pink rectangle in the middle is a root-3 rectangle, typically used as a unit of repetition in a six-fold pattern.