Crochet And Hyperbolic Geometry
Crochet coral reefs are based on a mathematical concept known as hyperbolic geometry. The connection between the two was made by Latvian mathematician Daina Taimina, integrating crochet as a way to teach and visually demonstrate hyperbolic planes; transforming them from paper examples to three-dimensional objects.
By incorporating crochet into her university lectures, she was also able to turn these technical skills into an art form, crocheting detailed and unique items for all to enjoy. (More information on Daina Taimina and hyperbolic crochet can be found via the link below.)
The Beginning Of Crochet Coral Reefs
Margaret Wertheim and Christine Wertheim took the skill to a whole new level, when they founded the Institute For Figuring. They transcended Taimina’s technique and used it to make scientific and biological artifacts, specifically crochet coral reefs. The project itself within the Institute is the Crochet Coral Reef Project. To quote the website, it functions as an “intersection of mathematics, marine biology, handicraft and community art practice, and also responds to the environmental crisis of global warming and the escalating problem of oceanic plastic trash.”
People from all over the globe have made and sent corals, jellyfish, and other crochet items to be added to major museums displayed around the world. Take a look at this display featured at the Smithsonian. The reef is MASSIVE. The exhibit is realistic, and captures the beauty of aquatic life, letting all who visit experience the natural wonder beneath the water’s surface. (To see more photos, search ‘crochet coral reef’ online and see what comes up! You’ll be amazed!)
The creative blend of scientific and mathematical aspects is truly phenomenal. Who would have thought a mathematical plane could be incorporated to make items out of yarn and a crochet hook? 🙂
Crochet coral reefs are fun to make, and represent how beautifully mathematical nature is.
They can also be readily modeled into various art forms. Since the beginning of 2015, I’ve explored various techniques and have had a wonderful time crocheting up quite a few corals (with over 200 coral items around the house, excluding the ones I’ve sold). By experimenting with different patterns, color combinations, and creative techniques, I’ve had the opportunity to expand on this skill and even create wearable accessories for kids, adults, and dolls. I’ve showcased my work at various Arts Festivals, and have contributed to a local crochet reef, which turned out splendidly (as seen in the photo at the top of this page). It’s an honor to have a small part in something so incredible.
The Crochet Buddies Online Shop has featured a wide array of handmade, one-of-a-kind original items and accessories for sale. In addition to the main usable and wearable items in the Online Store, the Buddies and I have sold hyperbolic crochet coral reef items, for decorating and even wearing throughout the seasons.
The patterns I’ve used to create these corals are inspired by hyperbolic crochet, but aren’t replicas of some of the more intricate designs out there. Therefore, they’re my original designs.
Make Your Very Own Crochet Starfish
Available as a free pattern in the Crochet Buddies Shop.
