Oh What a Complex Rug We Weave When First We Color Then Perceive
Barry Cipra and Paul Zorn

Proceedings of Bridges 2023: Mathematics, Art, Music, Architecture, Culture
Pages 377–380
Short Papers

Abstract

This paper reports on some surprising patterns that emerge by obeying a simple mathematical rule, borrowed from knot theory, for tricoloring a square weave of “ribbon” or “thread,” starting from specified “fringe” conditions across the top and left edges. We have no proofs as yet; indeed, it’s a challenge just to describe what we see in full mathematical detail. But clear hints of Sierpinski arise...

Files