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Innovator-in-Residence: Math Art
Join us as Greenwich Library’s new Innovator-in-Residence, Dr. Shiying Dong—a pioneering mathematical artist—leads a 12-week residency in the Innovation Lab. Through hands-on projects using laser cutters, 3D printers, and yarn, Dr. Dong will guide participants in exploring the intersection of art, math, and technology.
On Saturdays in September, drop in to explore and create your own math-inspired artwork. Each week features a rotating hands-on project—like laser-cut Einstein tiles that form endlessly non-repeating patterns or colorful paper orbs assembled from modular components. These mini-projects blend geometry, symmetry, and creativity, and you’ll make, assemble, and experiment while learning the math and design concepts behind each creation. Dr. Dong will be there to demonstrate techniques, explain the math, and help you dive deeper into the tools she’s used throughout her residency.
This is a relaxed, drop-in program for all ages—stop by anytime between 1–4 PM and stay as long as you like! Whether you're a math lover, puzzle fan, or curious maker, come be part of the experience.
To get early access to all the Library's Innovation Lab events, sign up here for Innovation Lab email newsletters.
- Date:
- Saturday, September 27, 2025
- Time:
- 1:00pm - 4:00pm
- Location:
- Innovation Lab
- Audience:
- Adult Children Everyone Senior Teens
- Categories:
- Art Crafts Home and Garden Innovation STEAM
Dr. Dong holds a M.A. in Math from the University of Pennsylvania and a Ph.D. in theoretical physics from the University of Illinois and is the originator of topological crochet—a pioneering art form that transforms complex concepts from algebraic topology into intricate yarn sculptures. Her interdisciplinary work has received national recognition, including awards from the Mathematical Art Exhibition at the Joint Mathematics Meetings and the prestigious 2023 Einstein Mad Hat Award Grand Prize. Her paper-craft designs and her crochet forms have also been featured in The New York Times.
As an educator, Dr. Dong has taught in-person and online workshops at the National Museum of Mathematics and presented at major math-art conferences, including Bridges and the Joint Mathematics Meetings. She is currently co-authoring a book with renowned math artist Eve Torrence. Passionate about making advanced mathematical ideas accessible through hands-on creativity, she works across mediums—from yarn and paper to laser-cut and 3D-printed materials—to help others discover the beauty and playfulness of mathematics.
PROGRAM CONTACT:
Innovation Lab
Greenwich Library
Greenwich, CT 06830
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