‘Fermat’s Piano’, constructed over 3 days using 5000m line, 15m wooden dowels, 28 retort stand bosses.
Mauro De Luca (Theoretical Physics UCD) Michele Hetherington (Fine Art Print NCAD) David Rogers (Physics with Astronomy & Space Science UCD)

“The seeds of Fermat’s Piano were sown by projecting interference patterns made by overlapping concentric rings on the walls of the studio. Then we experimented with shadows produced by shining light on patterns made from string. As our thoughts developed, we arrived at this design. The piece is entitled “Fermat’s Piano” after the physicist who proposed a principle that governs the paths that light can take. We also felt that the rhythm and overall structure of the piece related to that of a grand piano. Perspective is important to our piece and has been important to our process. There are many viewpoints available to the observer, whether they are above, below or along the stairway itself. The visibility of the lines vary with the observer’s point of view, thus, slowly revealing light’s presence. The curvature of the lines echoes how space can bend light. The convergence of light is also suggested in the apparent intersection of the lines in our piece. For me, the absence and presence of light can have a huge influence on my mood, and so it is with this piece. ” (Extracts from the artist’s statement by Mauro De Luca)

Tunnelling Art & Science is a collaborative module between students of UCD Science and NCAD Fine Art, delivered by artist Emer O Boyle . 'Fermat's Piano' was installed at UCD College of Science as part of the Tunnelling Art and Science 2015 exhibition.