Math + Coding

Math Art with Python

What do a sunflower, a nautilus shell, and a snowflake have in common? Mathematics. In this project you will use Python and matplotlib to turn equations into stunning visual art — spirographs, fractal trees, Lissajous curves, and more. No prior coding experience required; you will learn by experimenting and seeing results instantly.

Ages 12–16

Beginner

2-week pilot · 1 online + 1 in-person session per week

Suggested contribution: $30

What you'll build

A gallery of at least 5 original mathematical artworks
Parameterised scripts you can tweak to generate infinite variations
A simple interactive slider UI (ipywidgets) to explore parameters
A printed or digital poster of your favourite piece

What you'll learn

Trigonometry through drawing: sine, cosine, polar coordinates
Python fundamentals: loops, functions, lists
matplotlib and numpy basics
Recursion via fractal trees
Thinking about math as a creative tool

Tools needed

A laptop (any OS)
Python 3.10+ (free)
Jupyter Notebook or VS Code (free)
pip packages: matplotlib, numpy, ipywidgets

Final showcase

Print (or display) your favourite artwork and give a 2-minute talk explaining the equation behind it.

Junior Assistant Pathway

Students who complete this project may later return as junior assistants — helping the next cohort and deepening their own understanding through teaching.

We'll reach out with scheduling details and confirm your spot.