Math Encounters: "Seeing Symmetry: The Artful Mathematics of Wallpaper Patterns" with Frank A. Farris (4:00 pm)

Join mathematical artist Frank A. Farris for a visually stimulating session about symmetry. Taking a radical new approach to symmetry, Farris does not create patterns by repeating blocks — the usual "potato stamp” method — but rather teases patterns from mathematical objects called complex waveforms. Using any photograph as input, Farris' waves can create all kinds of fantastical patterns. It's fun to view the "before and after" effect as you look back and forth between photograph and wallpaper, but beware: you will leave this session seeing patterns everywhere you look!

Special introduction by mathematician Dan King, Sarah Lawrence College.

This page is for the 4:00 pm session. Click here to register for the 7:00 pm session instead.

Light refreshments will be served after the 4:00 pm session and at 6:30 in advance of second session.

Math Encounters is a public presentation series celebrating the spectacular world of mathematics, presented by the Simons Foundation and the National Museum of Mathematics.

Bring a new friend to Math Encounters and you’ll be on your way to winning a free t-shirt! friendme.momath.org

For further information, call the National Museum of Mathematics at (212) 542-0566 or e-mail mathencounters@momath.org.

Please note, this presentation is designed to be accessible and engaging to a general audience. As a rule of thumb, it would be best enjoyed by participants ages 12 and up.

Please check our online shop for books by Math Encounters presenters.