That Phenomenal Fingering Figuring Worldwide Hyperbolic Crochet Coral Reef Thingy

I posted an image a few days ago, not knowing where it came from, of a crocheted coral reef. Now, thanks to Dorothy who emailed, we do know where it comes from and for those of you who would like to know more and who would perhaps like to start on their own reef, here are some links for you.

First we go wildly high tech which will appeal to the techo-needle workers amongst you and I know you are many! The core of the Hyperbolic Crochet Coral Reef (for so is it called) is the Institute For Figuring located in the Chinatown district of Los Angeles. The Institute’s Hyperbolic Crochet Coral Reef created by Margaret & Christine Wertheim is now one of the largest science + art projects in the world. The IFF was founded in 2003, and has developed exhibits and programs for museums, galleries, colleges, and community groups around the world including: the Andy Warhol Museum (Pittsburgh), The Hayward (London), the Science Gallery (Dublin), the New Children’s Museum (San Diego), Art Center College of Design (Pasadena), the Museum of Jurassic Technology (Los Angeles), and the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History. At the core of the IFF’s work is the concept of material play. They believe that ideas usually presented in abstract terms can often be embodied in physical activities that engage audiences via kindergarten-like practices. Through activities such as cutting and folding paper, we affirm that the hands and eyes can serve as guides to developing the human mind. By inviting our audience to literally play with ideas, the IFF offers a new, hands-on approach to public science education that is at once intellectually rigorous, pedagogically rich, and aesthetically aware. Click here for the IFF link.

You can see the project in action on the Melbourne Satellite of the Worldwide. Click here for that link. And also on the Style Wilderness blog - click here for their link.