NISF: The mathematics of dessins d'enfants

As part of NI Science Fetsival, this workshop will be an interactive exploration of the incredible mathematical theory of dessins d'enfants ("children's drawings"). We can think of a dessin d'enfant as a shape that you obtain by gluing together a number of triangles. Remarkably, these simple objects give rise to far deeper mathematical ideas, which form an active subject of modern research. With models and illustrations, and hands-on activities, the workshop will explore some of the secrets of dessins d'enfants, and look at the mathematicians who have developed the subject.

 

The workshop is for those with appreciation of shape and symmetry. By exploring models and pictures, participants will appreciate the flavour of an exciting branch of contemporary mathematics. We will meet some beautiful geometric ideas, which will be a source of inspiration for aspiring mathematicians and artists alike!

 

This event will be delivered by Dr Ian Short, Director of Research in Mathematics and Statistics at The Open University.