Exhibit ideas - Panels

Exhibit ideas

Any of the graphics from the KnotPlot Site could be adapted and enhanced for the Knot Exhibit. In particular, we plan to adapt and enhance the page on mathematical knot theory.

Knots in architecture

This component of the exhibit allows us to have a specifically Portuguese theme. In Manueline architecture, fond as it was of nautical motifs, there are many examples of knots (an example is the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos in Lisboa). We plan to have at least one panel devoted to exploring the art and history of these often elaborate stuctures.

Naturally occurring knots

Knots are found everywhere in nature. From the hagfish, who ties itself in knots to avoid being eaten, to the weaver bird, who makes a nest be weaving and braiding small sticks and grass together, to the DNA found in our cells. Knots are everywhere.

Knots as radiating tubes

These images, produced to help visualize a knot energy model developed by Greg Buck, are often very beautiful. Many more examples can be seen at the Knots as radiating tubes web site. Several of the movies of knots relaxing would also be used in the endlessly running movie component of the exhibit (but improved and enhanced).

Knot families

Torus knots are one family of knots. In some sense they are the simplest knots, it's generally much easier to prove things about torus knots then for general knots (most knots are not torus knots). Torus knots by crossing number

Torus knots in order of increasing complexity

This image is very striking at a large size. Especially, see this large version and this even larger version. (Some browsers may have trouble with the largest version).

I would like to make a panel at least 2 or even 3 meters wide. It would be quite spectacular. It wouldn't even need much explanation, although one would be given.