Let me introduce you to Christine and Margaret Wertheim. Two sisters, one scientist, one science writer. Both founders of the Crochet Coral Reef project, “an ever-evolving nature-culture hybrid…that resides at the nexus of craft, science, mathematics, community engagement, climate change, & feminist art practice,” they write on their website.
Inspired by the mathematical field of hyperbolic geometry, the project, which involves some 25,000 crocheters, has created over 50 reefs, each carefully constructed by hand by those seeking to connect people with the ocean, the plight of coral reefs, and send a message of hope. “What can we humans do when we work together, not ignoring ecological problems but also not capitulating to fantasies that rescue is around the corner from some sudden technological solution.”
The largest reef, displayed at the Museum Frieder Burda in Germany in 20222, contained over 40,000 crocheted coral pieces.
Beautiful? Yes
Engaging? Absolutely?
Communicating science?
When it comes to science communication, many of us think about sharing knowledge and information. We might do that using the power of the written word. We might make an infographic. We might make a video or a podcast.
A crocheted coral exhibition does not impart facts (though there may be some interpretation at the exhibition-I haven’t been to one myself to say how much). Instead. the visual, tactile, three-dimensional nature of the medium does something else. It stimulates the senses and sparks curiosity. It can inspire and engage. It can be an emotional experience, and it can build a connection with those who may not otherwise read, listen, or watch something “sciencey.”
Of course, there are those 25,000 crocheters themselves.
Did they all start knowing what hyperbolic geometry is? I doubt it.
Do they have a better understanding now? I suspect more probably do.
Did they all know about the troubles we’re causing the ocean and coral reefs? Many probably had some idea (hence their involvement).
Do they have a better understanding now? I would be surprised if they haven’t also gained greater awareness.