The Science Museum in London is set to open a groundbreaking new gallery dedicated to the fascinating world of mathematics. This unique exhibition, designed by the renowned architectural firm Zaha Hadid Architects (ZHA), promises to be a visual and intellectual treat. It’s not just any gallery, though; it’s the first public museum exhibition worldwide designed by ZHA and the first U.K. building to open after the passing of its iconic founder, Dame Zaha Hadid.
This gallery, aptly named “Mathematics: The Winton Gallery”, is a testament to the impact of mathematical practice on our lives. It tells the story of mathematics through the ages, showcasing how it has shaped everything from trade and travel to warfare, health, and art.
The gallery is more than just a collection of artifacts; it’s an immersive experience. Inspired by the 1939 Handley Page “Gugnunc” airplane, the gallery’s form, lines, and layout mimic the plane’s airflow pattern. Benches and displays are strategically positioned, creating a sinuous flow that engages visitors on a physical and intellectual level.
A Journey Through Time: Mathematical Innovations Unveiled
At the heart of the gallery lies a collection of over 100 treasures from the Science Museum’s renowned collection. These objects, spanning four centuries of mathematical practice, represent a rich cultural history of human endeavor. They reveal the impact of mathematics on the world we live in, showcasing how it has helped shape and been shaped by our fundamental human concerns.
Dr. David Rooney, curator of the gallery, states, “This gallery unveils a rich cultural story of human endeavor that has helped transform the world. Mathematical practice underpins so many aspects of our lives and work.” By bringing together these remarkable stories, people, and exhibits, the gallery aims to inspire visitors to rethink the role of mathematics in their world.
A Gallery Inspired by Flight: Zaha Hadid’s Legacy
The gallery’s unique design, inspired by the Handley Page “Gugnunc” airplane, is a testament to the legacy of Zaha Hadid. Equations of airflow used in the aviation industry served as the inspiration for the gallery’s layout and lines. This airflow pattern is reflected in the positioning of showcases and benches, as well as the curved surfaces of the central pod structure.
The gallery is a testament to Hadid’s enduring influence on the world of architecture. It’s the first permanent public museum exhibition designed by her firm, and the first to open in the U.K. since her untimely passing in 2016. Hadid’s deep fascination with mathematics and geometry, instilled during her university days, shaped her approach to architecture. She saw mathematics as a fundamental element of design, a belief reflected in every one of her projects.
A Treasure Trove of Stories: From Ancient Wisdom to Modern Innovation
“Mathematics: The Winton Gallery” offers a compelling journey through time. From a beautiful 17th-century Islamic astrolabe that uses ancient mathematical techniques to map the night sky to an early example of the Enigma machine, designed to resist even the most advanced code-breaking techniques during World War II, each object tells a unique story.
Archive photography and film help to bring these stories to life, introducing the individuals who created, used, or were impacted by each mathematical device or idea. The gallery showcases the wide range of people who have contributed to the advancement of mathematics.
Beyond the Expected: Challenging Perceptions of Math
The gallery offers a unique perspective on the world of mathematics. While some instruments and objects clearly reference their mathematical origin, others may surprise visitors, appearing rooted in other disciplines, such as classical architecture and furniture design.
The gallery challenges visitors to reconsider their understanding of mathematics, revealing its hidden influence in seemingly unrelated fields. This is exemplified by the box of glass eyes used by Francis Galton, which demonstrates the role of mathematics in developing statistics for social and political movements.
The Wisard pattern-recognition machine is another highlight, showcasing the early development of Artificial Intelligence. This machine, built in 1981, has been used for a variety of projects, from banknote recognition to voice analysis and foetal growth monitoring to covert surveillance.
Inspiring Future Generations: A Legacy for All
“Mathematics: The Winton Gallery” is not just a collection of objects and stories. It’s a powerful testament to the impact of mathematics on our world. It’s an invitation to explore the beauty and power of this often misunderstood discipline.
The gallery has been made possible by a generous donation from David and Claudia Harding, long-standing supporters of science. The gallery also received generous support from Samsung, MathWorks, and other donors. The gallery hopes to inspire future generations to explore the world of mathematics, recognizing its fundamental role in shaping the future.
“Mathematics: The Winton Gallery” is open daily from December 8, 2016, and is free to visit. Visitors are encouraged to explore the gallery, engage with the exhibits, and discover the power of mathematics for themselves.
This engaging new gallery at the Science Museum offers a unique opportunity to learn about the fascinating world of mathematics. With its thought-provoking exhibits, immersive design, and inspiring stories, “Mathematics: The Winton Gallery” is sure to captivate visitors of all ages.
