The David Poole Lecture In Mathematics

Established in 2021 by Trent University Professor Emeritus David Poole, former chair of Trent’s Mathematics Department and a former Associate Dean of Arts and Science, this annual lecture series will feature talks about mathematics and/or mathematics education. The intended audience is the Trent community, local teachers and students, and the general public. 

Making Mathematics with Needle and Thread

Gerda de Vries

Professor at University of Alberta

• 

  Wednesday, November 13, 2024

• 5:00 p.m.
• 

  Event Space, Student Centre, 1600 West Bank Drive, Peterborough, K9L 0G2

Lecture Abstract 

The connection between textiles and mathematics is intimate but not often explored, possibly because textiles and fibre arts have traditionally been the domain of women while mathematics was viewed as a male endeavour. How times have changed! Today, textiles and mathematics, like art and science, are recognized for their interwoven, complementary attributes. In this presentation, Gerda will examine the connection between quilts and mathematics. Come to be inspired, enlightened, and delighted by the mathematical stories behind a wide variety of traditional and contemporary quilts. 

About Gerda de Vries

Dr. Gerda de Vries is a Mathematical & Statistical Sciences professor and Associate Dean Undergraduate for the Faculty of Science at the University of Alberta. Dr. de Vries’ research lies at the interface of mathematics and biology, and encompasses applications to cell biology, neurophysiology, and the formation of animal groups. She is an advocate for interdisciplinary education and has been awarded many institutional and national awards for excellence in undergraduate teaching and graduate student mentorship. She is a sought-after public speaker, presenting on the importance and joy of mathematics. She is also a recognized quilt artist whose quilts reflect a structured approach to design.

For more information, contact math@trentu.ca or alumni@trentu.ca.