Bridges 2026 Exhibition of Mathematical Art, Craft, and Design

Srineeth Alapati

Artists

Srineeth Alapati

Computer Science Student

School of Computing, Clemson University

South Carolina, USA

srineeth239@gmail.com

View exhibition history

Statement

During my time studying computer science and mathematics, I have always been drawn to symmetry. This led me to study abstract algebra and the study of groups. At the same time, I have also been interested in strong visual contrast and balance. That connected me to insects, since many of them display clear vertical symmetries in their bodies and wings. I aim to create pieces that reflect the overlap between my academic interests and visual curiosities. One example is the way structured systems such as groups can be mirrored in natural forms.

Artworks

Image for entry 'Symmetries and Orders in Nature'

Symmetries and Orders in Nature

48.13 x 48.13 x 2.5 cm

Watercolor paint and paper, card stock paper, insect specimens

2026

Additional info

This work visualizes the multiplication table of the symmetry group of an equilateral triangle, realized as the general linear group GL(2, F₂) over the finite field of order 2. The elements of GL(2, F₂) are 2×2 matrices, displayed as 2×2 squares: entries equal to 1 are represented by colored squares with insects, while entries equal to 0 are represented by black beetles. Each group element is assigned a distinct color and an insect order. An insect order is a rank in biological taxonomy that classifies related types of insects. The elements in the subgroup of order 3 are represented using warm colors, while the remaining elements are represented with cool colors.