Illustrating Mathematics Seminar, September 2023.

We'll discuss a range of topics from knot theory to the fiber arts, and use code, 3D printing, and vintage punch card knitting machines to create pattern generation tools and physical models that illustrate and clarify the underlying mathematics. We'll also discuss the ups and downs of designing at the intersection of mathematics, technology, and crafting.

Mathematical Association of America Distinguished Lecture Series, April 2023.

This talk explores tritangentless trefoils that roll as easily as possible, collections of ideal graph configurations, and 3D mesh models that can accurately visualize a variety of chaotic orbits. 

Gathering 4 Gardner, Celebration of Mind lecture series, June 2021.

We’ll talk briefly about 3D printing foldable and hinged models for polygonal and polyhedral dissections, and a new idea for “volume nets”. Q&A at the end extends to technical questions about 3D printing enclosed hinges and flexible, foldable materials.

Geometry Labs United Seminar, October 2020.

In this talk we’ll take a tour of accessible and (mostly) free design programs that are particularly suited for creating geometric and algorithmic designs, including OpenSCAD, Mathematica, Topmod, and Grasshopper.

Gathering 4 Gardner 13, conference talk, Atlanta, Georgia, April 2018.

So we know there are 15 families of pentagonal tessellations… how do we 3D print models based on those tessellations?

Gathering 4 Gardner 11, conference talk, Atlanta, Georgia, March 2016.

Can you 3D print a Menger sponge? Well, maybe. We explore the design and printing process for complex fractals, and the value of having physical models when exploring slices and halves of Menger sponges.

Math Encounters Lecture Series, National Museum of Mathematics (MoMath), New York City, October 2014. 

Mathematician Laura Taalman brings math into the third dimension as she demonstrates how modern technology can be used to turn abstract mathematical concepts into physical realities.

Carriage House Distinguished Speaker Series, Mathematical Association of America, Washington, DC, April 2014.

Teaser video for a longer talk on knot theory, 3D printing, and the mathematical discovery process (including failure). 

Institute for Visual Studies colloquium talk, James Madison University, Harrisonburg, Virginia, March 2013.

Exploration and experimental mathematical research around so-called "spiral" knots and their algebraic invariants. We also discuss the process of doing research and the discovery/creation process in mathematics.