Ingrid Daubechies presents a Mathemalchemy: An Adventure in Math and Art exhibit. (Photo Credit: Amy Peters/Computer Science)
Ingrid Daubechies presents a Mathemalchemy: An Adventure in Math and Art exhibit.

Duke Alumni and Friends Experience Mathemalchemy: An Adventure in Math and Art at National Museum of Mathematics

Mathemalchemy: An Adventure in Math and Art exhibit. (Photo Credit: Amy Peters/Computer Science)
A Mathemalchemy: An Adventure in Math and Art exhibit.

Duke's Department of Computer Science, along with the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, hosted a unique "insider access" exhibition and reception on Thursday, October 17, for ”Mathemalchemy: An Adventure in Math and Art” at MoMath, the National Museum of Mathematics in New York City.

James B. Duke Distinguished Professor Emeritus of Mathematics Ingrid Daubechies, co-creator of the exhibit who The New York Times proclaimed as "the godmother of the digital image," joined Duke alumni, parents, family and friends for the event.

The exhibit was created by a team of 24 mathematical artists during the pandemic. It depicts a magical wonderland where "critters of all stripes" are surrounded by mathematical objects and observe customs interwoven with mathematics. Mathemalchemy celebrates the fun, beauty, and creativity of mathematics and illustrates the many different levels of mathematics.

Duke alumni from all around the surrounding area joined the family-friendly STEM-focused event.

Betsy Werley, a 1976 graduate of the Trinity College of Arts & Sciences at Duke, said, "The content was extraordinary, the food was good and plentiful and the location was convenient."

Mariia Khorun, a 2015 graduate of the School of Law at Duke, said, "It was wonderful that the event was family-friendly, STEM-focused. My toddler enjoyed exploring the museum. I loved connecting with Dukies in NYC."

A third alumni said, "Such a fun interactive experience with a diverse and engaging group of alumni and staff."

The National Museum of Mathematics (MoMath) is an award-winning museum that highlights the role of mathematics in illuminating the patterns and structures all around us. Its dynamic exhibits, galleries, and programs are designed to stimulate inquiry, spark curiosity, and reveal the wonders of mathematics.

After being on display at MoMath, the exhibit headed to The University of Quebec in Montreal (UQAM).