Math Monday: Mathematical art in the lava

Science
Math Monday: Mathematical art in the lava
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Mathematical art in the lava

By George Hart for the Museum of Mathematics

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Edmund Harris created this geometric sculpture on a 35 year old lava field in Iceland. It can be understood as a simple form composed of equilateral triangles, but the curved edges where the triangles hinge together soften the geometry, giving it a more organic character.

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The plywood parts are hinged, so they can be easily disassembled and rearranged. Edmund credits this construction system to Richard Grimes, and gives detailed fabrication instructions here. He hopes that others will find this to be an easy way to get started making large mathematical constructions.

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Gareth Branwyn is a freelance writer and the former Editorial Director of Maker Media. He is the author or editor of over a dozen books on technology, DIY, and geek culture. He is currently a contributor to Boing Boing, Wink Books, and Wink Fun. His free weekly-ish maker tips newsletter can be found at garstipsandtools.com.

View more articles by Gareth Branwyn

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