The simplicity of complexity: a story of mathematical outreach

Fuente: arXiv
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Autori principali: Parlier, Hugo, Teheux, Bruno
Natura: Preprint
Pubblicazione: 2025
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author Parlier, Hugo
Teheux, Bruno
author_facet Parlier, Hugo
Teheux, Bruno
contents Mathematics is often perceived as difficult or inaccessible, yet meaningful engagement can arise in unexpected places. In this article we describe a multi-year exploration of mathematical outreach through games, puzzles, exhibitions, and artistic activities. Starting from a small science festival exhibit, our work developed into a broad collection of experiences showcased at game festivals, museums, and the World Expos in Dubai (2021/2022) and Osaka (2025). We discuss the principles that shaped these activities -- simplicity, atmosphere, mediation, and progressive depth -- and how mathematical ideas from topology, geometry, and logic can be incorporated into playful and creative formats. The story illustrates how low-threshold engagement and carefully designed experiences can open doors to research-level mathematics for audiences of all ages and backgrounds.
format Preprint
id arxiv_https___arxiv_org_abs_2512_03544
institution arXiv
publishDate 2025
record_format arxiv
spellingShingle The simplicity of complexity: a story of mathematical outreach
Parlier, Hugo
Teheux, Bruno
History and Overview
Mathematics is often perceived as difficult or inaccessible, yet meaningful engagement can arise in unexpected places. In this article we describe a multi-year exploration of mathematical outreach through games, puzzles, exhibitions, and artistic activities. Starting from a small science festival exhibit, our work developed into a broad collection of experiences showcased at game festivals, museums, and the World Expos in Dubai (2021/2022) and Osaka (2025). We discuss the principles that shaped these activities -- simplicity, atmosphere, mediation, and progressive depth -- and how mathematical ideas from topology, geometry, and logic can be incorporated into playful and creative formats. The story illustrates how low-threshold engagement and carefully designed experiences can open doors to research-level mathematics for audiences of all ages and backgrounds.
title The simplicity of complexity: a story of mathematical outreach
topic History and Overview
url https://arxiv.org/abs/2512.03544