Abstraction en couleurs

Introduction

Since 2009, Lena Amuat and Zoë Meyer have been photographing mathematical models from various scientific collections and universities across Europe.
This work, produced using analogue technology on site via a mobile studio, forms a series of mathematical models entitled ‘Artefakte und Modelle, 2009–2026’. It now comprises around 200 prints, a selection of which is being exhibited this autumn at the Maison Poincaré.
This exhibition showcases the mathematical models from the Institut Henri Poincaré, most of which are over a century old.
The collection was bequeathed in 1928 by the Laboratory of Higher Geometry at the Faculty of Sciences of the University of Paris, which transferred its library and model room to the Institut Henri Poincaré upon its inauguration. These objects are varied in nature from a mathematical perspective and made from a range of materials: plaster, wood, metal, string and even papier mâché. This exhibition invites you to (re)discover them through the artists’ photographs, as well as through the display of original models, and to explore the magical yet little-known history of these teaching aids, which bear witness to the history of mathematics education in France.
You will also have the chance to try your hand at creating a mathematical object out of paper: you’ll be able to take your own model home with you, to display or study.

Exhibition conceived by the Institut Henri Poincaré, with the support of the IHP Endowment Fund.

Year of creation

2026

Realisation

Artists : Lena Amuat, Zoë Meyer.
Scientific experts: Sylvie Benzoni, Frédéric Brechenmacher.
Exhibition curators: Elodie Christophe, Sally Secardin.

Public

Exhibition for all publics, recommended from 7 years old.

Information

From 24 September to 24 December 2026
Espace Laurent Schwartz
Check our opening times and access conditions