Our second in the series of three workshops, to celebrate Dublin City of Science 2012, will take place on the 26th May, at 11 am, in the Botanic Gardens, and will finish at 2pm. We believe both art and science are creative at their cores and based on the same dynamic process of discovery and inquiry. These workshops encourage the exchange between disciplines and foster creative ‘ways of seeing’ as well as exploring the intricate and rich biodiversity that exists in the National Botanic Gardens.

Workshop: Exploring Patterns

WORKSHOP 2: 26th May
>> Exploring patterns
In this workshop, we present a short introductory talk to our group about the basis of scientific thinking in relation to Phi: The Golden Ratio, as it relates to the phyllotaxis (the placement of leaves on a stem); the concept of phyllotaxis, and how Fibonacci number sequences are found in plant, leaf placement, tracing the related observations of artist and botanists through the ages (including Leonardo da Vinci), showing relevant diagrams and drawings, and covering Karl Friedric Shimper, Alexander Braun and the Bravais brothers’ application of mathematics to phyllotaxis.

The group, after warm-up exercises, will make detailed studies of roses, sunflowers or pineapples which all provide manifestations of a Fibonacci-based phyllotaxis. Here the emphasis is not on the rigid application of the numbering system, but rather a exploration of it, as a fascinatingly prevalent but not absolute tendency.

WORKSHOP 3: 23rd June
>> Scientist talk
Evolutionary biology: Kingdom, phyllum, class, order, family, genus, species: a system which reflects an unbroken descent from common ancestors.

Short introductory talk on the specific evolution of a plant, using the cactus, for instance, or another plant as an example, perhaps with a dissecting microscope.

Group activity: After warm-up exercises, the group will make detailed studies of the cactus, paying attention to the particular adaptivity of the plant to its habitat. They’ll be invited to use the microscope also to examine its specially adapted features.

• All are welcome. Our teaching method allows each participant to work comfortably in a relaxed atmosphere at his or her own level.

• Materials are provided, though of course you may wish to bring your own, as well as a folding stool or easel. Come prepared for the weather!

• We can now accept bookings for the first workshop.   Email us by clicking here to book your place.

Looking forward to seeing you soon!

Debbie and Anne