10 March 2008

Exhibition combines science and art

The latest exhibition in the Tower Foyer Gallery at the University of Dundee is a fascinating mix of art and science.

French artist Sylvie PIC has been travelling Europe studying historic collections of mathematical models and creating stunningly detailed works of art inspired by them. Following an artist’s residency in the University’s Museum Collections in October 2007, Sylvie is now showing her artworks along with some of the University’s collection of models. Made of plaster and paper, these beautifully crafted models were ordered from Germany in the early 1900s by the University’s first professor of mathematics, J E A Steggall.

Sylvie explains:
"Following an exhibition at the Library of the Institut Henri Poincaré in Paris inspired by their extensive collection of mathematical models, I undertook research into other European universities that own similar collections. As well as the great German universities, I discovered that the University of Dundee holds such a collection, including some models that are not in the IHP collection. What I found particularly interesting was that the University still has some of the original catalogues of the German manufacturers. After a study visit to Dundee in October 2007, I’m very happy to being showing some of my topological drawings in the Tower Foyer Gallery."

Sylvie PIC was born and educated in Marseilles and has exhibited her work in France, Brazil, Italy, Germany, Canada and the USA. As well as working as an artist she also lectures on art and mathematics in France and Canada.

Sylvie PIC: Topological Drawings
Tower Foyer Gallery, University of Dundee
7 March - 26 April 2008
Mon-Fri 09.30-20.30 Sat 09.30-16.30
Admission Free

For further information call 01382 384310 or email museum@dundee.ac.uk.

For media enquiries contact:
Anna Day
Press Office
University of Dundee
Nethergate Dundee, DD1 4HN
TEL: 01382 384768
E-MAIL: a.c.day@dundee.ac.uk