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There are many connections between architecture and mathematics: mathematic principles may be used as a basis for an architectural design, or an a tool for analyzing an existing monument; architecture may be a concrete expression of mathematical ideas, becoming, in a sense, "visual mathematics." The Nexus conferences began in 1996, with Nexus '96 held in Fucecchio (Florence) Italy. The second conference, Nexus '98, took place in Mantua, Italy. It was at the second conference that the decision was made to begin the Nexus Network Journal. The founding of the NNJ made possible communication and diffusion of research between the biennial Nexus conferences. Nexus 2000 took place in Ferrara, Italy. It was at this conference that the first Round Table Discussion was held, providing an important forum for interdisciplinary discussion Nexus 2002, the fourth in a biennial series of meetings, will once again bring together professionals working with ideas related to both architecture and mathematics. This year's conference features a varied range of presentations, divided into various themes. A glance at the schedule of presenters reveals the broad range of backgrounds and nationalities which will be in attendance: architects, architectural historians, archaeologists, geometers, mathematicians; North American, South American, Italian, Australian, Turkish, Slovenian, French, Indian. Such an assortment of professionals assures a rich and lively range of subjects. Nexus 2002 will also offer a second Round Table Discussion. A new addition to the conference is a special experimental session on "Computer Tools for Architecture and Mathematics", reflecting the growing use of information technology in both disciplines. The purpose of Nexus 2002 is two-fold: to allow participants to exchange ideas first-hand; to publish an anthology of papers, Nexus IV: Architecture and Mathematics, providing a collective voice for researchers of more than one discipline. The site of this particular meeting in Óbidos, in Portugal, allows the realization of a third purpose: to visit sites and monuments of great importance to both architecture and mathematics. |
