Celebration of numbers: art and mathematics unite in Münster!

Celebration of numbers: art and mathematics unite in Münster!

On March 14, 2025, the University of Münster will play a central role in the International Day of Mathematics (IDM), which this year takes place under the motto “Mathematics, Art and Creativity”. Information from the University of Münster shows that several exciting events are planned for this day, including a hands-on event on March 14th and a competition on March 15th.

The IDM was launched by the International Mathematical Union in 2019 and has been held annually worldwide since 2020 to promote interest in mathematics. March 14th was chosen because of its proximity to the circular constant Pi (3.14). This year the hands-on event “Math meets Art” is being offered in Münster, which will take place from 4 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. on the math campus, Einsteinstrasse 62. The event is aimed at children, teenagers and adults and features a variety of activities that explore mathematical topics, discover infinite patterns and highlight chalk art. Participation is free, registration is required by March 12th uni.ms/tagdermathematik.

Competition and research offers

The following day, March 15, there will be a “Mathematics Day” competition for high school students. This begins at 8.30 a.m. in the premises of Atruvia AG, GAD-Straße 2-6 in Münster. Here, participants can expect team and individual competitions with so-called “mathematical hurdles”. There are also insights into current mathematical research by renowned scientists such as Prof. Dr. Franziska Jahnke and Prof. Dr. Christian Engwer. An information and training program for teachers will be offered during the competition. Participation here is also free, and Atruvia AG provides meals. Registrations can be made individually or as a team uni.ms/math-competition take place.

In addition to the activities in Münster, a significant event will take place in Vienna on the same day. An event will be held in the Sky Lounge of the Faculty of Mathematics at the University of Vienna from 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., which is also part of the global IDM celebrations. The opening ceremony begins at 2:30 p.m. and is rounded off with musical and dance performances. Other suggestions include activity stations and an exhibition of mathematically inspired images. Workshops starting at 4:00 p.m. require registration at the welcome stand, although spaces are limited.

A review of past activities

Last year, on March 14, 2024, the focus was on the motto “Playing with Mathematics”. In Münster, among other things, a math trail and an afternoon of games for children took place. These activities included math puzzles that could be started individually, as well as a list of math games that were suitable for different age groups. Such events not only promote mathematical understanding, but also the creativity of the participants. The IDM shows all year round how versatile and entertaining mathematics can be.

For more information about the global celebrations surrounding the IDM and specific programs in other cities, those interested can visit the website idm314.org visit. In Münster, visitors can expect an exciting program that puts mathematics in a creative context and offers both fun and education.