WHETHER you are surrounded by towering skyscrapers on a bustling city street, or contemplating the intricate design of a tiny flower, one thing is clear: mathematically-precise shapes, angles and patterns are everywhere.
To encourage learners to recognise mathematics in the world around them and bring it to life, the Govan Mbeki Mathematics Development Centre (GMMDC) at Nelson Mandela University is running its second annual Math-Art Competition, where entrants must submit artworks inspired by mathematics. It opened on March 2 and closes for entry on May 3.
The competition – which was launched and run in the Eastern Cape last year – has been extended to include all provinces, thanks to strong partnerships with Umalusi, the South African Mathematics Foundation, the Centre for the Advancement of Science and Mathematics Education, the University of the Free State, the Department of Basic Education (Eastern Cape), Kutlwanong Centre for Maths, Science and Technology, the Independent Schools Association of South Africa and Curro Schools.
“Last year we had such a positive response in the Eastern Cape that we decided to open the competition to all the provinces,” said GMMDC competition coordinator, Carine Steyn.
The competition is open to learners from Grade 8 to 12 who can use any visual medium, including photography, drawing, painting, collage or mixed media, in one of two categories, namely, mathematics in man-made designs, or nature. Each participant will also have to provide a written explanation outlining the link between their artworks and maths, by describing which mathematical concept they used, how their artwork links to the selected category and which sources they used to design their work.
Each submitted artwork must be two-dimensional and A4 to A2 in size, with relief work no more than 2cm high.
Through the Math-Art Competition, along with various conferences and school-based activities, GMMDC aims to promote science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics (STEAM) activities to increase the popularity of maths in the classroom.
Competition prizes including tablets, cell phones and art classes will be awarded to the top-placed candidates. Top entries will be displayed at public art galleries. The winners will be announced on May 17 with a prize-giving taking place on May 25. For more info contact: mathart@mandela.ac.za.
