Beyond Numbers explores the relationship between mathematics and art through selections from the Castellani Art Museum’s permanent art collection. Mathematics is considered daunting by many and frequently elicits a negative reaction, while art tends to be more joyful and appealing to the general populace. The goal of this exhibition is to show that everyone is part of the mathematical universe and participating in mathematical thinking unconsciously.

Students in Foundations of Mathematics (MAT 227) and the Senior Mathematics Seminar (MAT 499) have a deep love of mathematics and a zeal to share their passion with the world. We hope to provide a window for those who have been disenchanted by formal mathematical instruction to experience the wonder and contemplation that these students regularly experience as they engage in mathematical discovery.

So much attention is focused on the usefulness and practicality of mathematics that very few ever learn about the aesthetics and beauty of the field. As part of their coursework, the MAT 227 students read Letters to a Young Mathematician by Ian Stewart and the MAT 499 students read Mathematics for Human Flourishing by Francis Su. Both books are popular science texts written by mathematicians to expose the ways in which mathematics impacts everyone and can deepen your understanding and appreciation of your existence. The students discovered the universality of the creative process, that artists and mathematicians are walking the same path in their search for meaning. 

Beyond Numbers serves as evidence to support the notion that beauty may be found in both the finished product and the guiding ideas that shaped it. We cordially invite you to join us on this exploratory voyage through the eyes of our student curators, as their observations through a mathematical lens will surprise you.

Acknowledgements 

This exhibition was curated by Dr. Maritza M. Branker, Associate Professor in the Mathematics Department  with her Fall 2023 students enrolled in Foundations of Mathematics (MAT 227) and Senior Seminar (MAT 499).

 
Student Curators

Senior Seminar students: Patrick Balcacer, Ella DiFlavio, Morgan Fitzpatrick, Jeffrey Koch,Madison LaPenta, Maia MacLean, Madison Manzella, Allison Mariglia, Michael Mayer, Julie Myers, Soley Peart, Madelynn Zilka

Foundations of Mathematics students: Paige Bronson, Malarie Carroll, Dominic Ciraolo, Kristen Coghlan, Anna Esposito, Alana Hall, Samantha Hare, Justiss Kovack, Thomas Latimer, Adrian Martinez, Kyle Mullin, Nicole Peunic, Matthew Ponce, Gavin Rice, Gabriela Vaquero, Dean Walck, Jeremy Waters

Beyond Numbers is made possible in part through the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature.