Mathematics and the Art of M.C. Escher
November 7th , 2024 at 6:30 p.m.
Presented by Doris Schattschneider
The word SYMMETRY is fraught with many meanings. Although it has a technical definition in mathematics and science, it has other meanings in art and architecture, still others in literature and fields concerned with aesthetics. Symmetry is embedded in Escher's art in so many ways--his work is the perfect medium through which to explore many aspects of symmetry.
Doris Schattschneider is Professor Emerita of Mathematics at Moravian University in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. Combining her dual interests in mathematics and art, she has become internationally known for her work with tilings of the plane and her many publications about M.C. Escher’s art. Her book M.C. Escher: Visions of Symmetry explores how Escher made and used his drawings of tessellations in his prints as well as in commissions for tiled pillars and facades, painted murals, intarsia woodwork, and more. In collaboration with graphic designer Wallace Walker, she designed polyhedral forms covered with Escher tessellations that have been published as M.C. Escher Kaleidocycles. She has been active in the Mathematical Association of America, serving as Editor of Mathematics Magazine, and received their national award for distinguished teaching. She is especially interested in making mathematics visual, and served as Geometer on the project that produced the software The Geometer’s Sketchpad. She is a Fellow of the American Mathematical Society.
This program is free however, registration is required for this event. Please email wendy.koller@readingpublicmuseum.org to reserve your seat.
