Celebrating Math, Corals, and Crochet

Crochet corals (credit: The Crochet Coral Reef project)

When math is applied by using colored threads be helpful in saving coral reefs? It can't hurt.

Australian science writer Margaret Wertheim uses mathematics when crocketing her wool yarns to recreate the geometry of the corals. Her crocheted structures simultaneously celebrate reefs themselves but they also display the hyperbolic math underlying the evolution and growth of natural reefs. Her exhibitions now inform people worldwide and encourage them to become directly involved in understanding this living and vibrant ecosystem. Wertheim's installations are not only amazing but a fine way to combine art and science in the service of promoting conservation. WHB

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