Hiding in Plain Sight: Secret Messages in Vyshyvanka Embroidery

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Hiding in Plain Sight: Secret Messages in Vyshyvanka Embroidery

Maria Droujkova

Puzzle,Art,Rec Math

Vyshyvanka is an embroidered Ukrainian shirt. Each region has its own traditions for vyshyvanka colors and designs. The artists who cross-stitch their vyshyvankas often hide names or inspirational messages in their creations. The paper will invite readers to experience this tradition and explore related mathematics using paper cutting, software, drawing, or actual embroidery. People who love art as well as those who can only draw a stick figure can generate these appealing designs and explore geometric transformations and dihedral groups in an accessible way. The activity is festive enough for math days, math festivals, and other community events.

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