It's Reef Jim, But Not As We Know It!

Yesterday, while spending a relaxing Wednesday afternoon strolling in Dublin, I finally managed to drop into the Science Gallery – a magical place where art and science collide – to view the rather oddly, yet accurately, titled Hyperbolic Crochet Coral Reef exhibition. Essentially, this exhibition features a multitude of coral reefs, all masterfully created using crochet. The idea of “knitting up a sponge” or “crocheting a coral” might seem odd – and yes it is a bit surreal at first – but this exhibition works so well in the surroundings of the Science Gallery. I was utterly enthralled with the brilliant colours on display and the great message portrayed - that coral reefs are under threat and must be protected! I also enjoyed my introductory lesson in hyperbolic symmetry. There are a number of different "themed" reefs: the toxic reef (produced using plastics (which 10% of all produced end up in the ocean and have the potential to cause significant damage to coral reefs), the beaded reef (created using beads of all shapes, sizes and colours) and the bleached Bone Reef (a reminder that "stressed" corals can bleach their brilliant colours).

Created and Curated by Margaret and Christine Wertheim of the Institute For Figuring in Los Angeles, the Hyperbolic Crochet Coral Reef features pieces of crochet from over 3000 people worldwide (including Ireland - in fact some of my favourite pieces were Irish made). It is a magical experience - as the Science Gallery always seems to be. So, get your boots and go!