IMAGINARY

Use the visual and aesthetic components of mathematics as eye-catchers to explain mathematical backgrounds to visitors in an interactive way – that was the idea behind the "IMAGINARY" exhibition, which was shown at the Karlstorbahnhof from July 20 to August 10, 2014. The imaginary and unimaginable of mathematics is illustrated, transforming into images that you generate yourself. “IMAGINARY – Through the eyes of mathematics” created a way to look at mathematical creations that was perhaps never before possible.

The exhibition with geometric objects consisted of four areas: 1. Elaborately printed images with visualizations of mathematical formulas, 2. 3D sculptures with algebraic surfaces, 3. Interactive installations that invited visitors to try out mathematical art for themselves, and 4. Several experiment stations, on loan from phaeno Wolfsburg, with mathematical phenomena to inspect and understand. Background information for the images provides explanations on their origin and significance, plus their mathematical connection. The pictures were created by internationally renowned mathematicians and graphic artists for the exhibition "IMAGINARY". In its initial form, the exhibition was conceived by Oberwolfach Research Institute for Mathematics (MFO) for the Year of Mathematics in 2008, and received financial support from the Klaus Tschira Foundation. Later, it went on tour as an interactive traveling exhibition and made a stop in Heidelberg. The showing at the Karlstorbahnhof was organized by the Heidelberg Laureate Forum Foundation (HLFF) together with the MFO.

"IMAGINARY", July 20 to August 10, 2014, Karlstorbahnhof Heidelberg, conceived by Oberwolfach Research Institute for Mathematics (MFO) with support from the Klaus Tschira Foundation.