Emily Dennett

This crocheted L-shaped scarf is composed of 256 smaller L-shaped tiles, each carefully crafted and joined to form a striking example of mathematical art. The L tile is a classic “rep-tile”—a shape that can be recursively tiled to create larger, self-similar versions of itself. This property is echoed in the structure of the scarf, where the arrangement and coloring of the smaller tiles are preserved and repeated as they combine to form the larger whole. The piece is also a tribute to creative collaboration and artistic play. My colleague, Dave Feinberg, frequently explores visual motifs by doodling the same pattern onto each L tile, creating mesmerizing variations within a unified form. Inspired by this practice, I embroidered a recurring design across the scarf, echoing his approach and layering personal expression onto the mathematical foundation. This work weaves together mathematical recursion, fiber artistry, and collaborative inspiration—showcasing the deep connections between math, pattern, and play.