Profile
Lucy Rycroft-Smith
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About Me:
I am a mathematician, artist and designer. I like to sing, paint, draw, make things, and above all learn new things.
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My pronouns are:
she/her
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My Work:
I write and speak about mathematics and research to make them more interesting, accessible and beautiful.
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My Typical Day:
I am usually woken by one of my four cats. Then I start my day – I work from home, so I don’t have to worry about getting to work. I’m an early riser and my favourite time is the morning! I spend time reading research, designing and drawing, and writing.
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What I'd do with the prize money:
I would be so delighted! I’d buy some really lovely art materials, the kind I wouldn’t usually dream of spending money on, and enjoy making a huge piece of mathematical art, something as gorgeous as possible. I’d make videos and images of my art and post them everywhere, so students and young people can see the way that mathematical art can work, and maybe be surprised that you can be an artist and mathematician at the same time. If I could inspire other people to make – and enjoy making – mathematical art, then the money would be extremely well spent.
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My Interview
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How would you describe yourself in 3 words?
mathematician-artist-designer
What did you want to be after you left school?
A vet!
Were you ever in trouble at school?
No - but not because I didn't break the rules, but because I was so stealthy at it! I was the perfect example of "look like the innocent flower, but be the serpent under't"!
If you weren't doing this job, what would you choose instead?
Opera singer
Who is your favourite singer or band?
I don't have a single favourite - I listen to an incredibly wide range of music
What's your favourite food?
Cheese - all kinds, and as much as possible!
If you had 3 wishes for yourself what would they be? - be honest!
1. An infinite number of wishes. 2. To not be such a mathematician in the way I answer questions about wishes.
Tell us a joke.
Did you hear about the top-heavy fractions shop? It's open 24/7.
How would you describe yourself in 3 words?
funny, intelligent, creative.
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