Martin L. (Marty) Demaine, a celebrated artist and mathematician, entered this world in the year 1942, marking the beginning of a remarkable journey that would soon unfold. Today, he is esteemed as the Angelika and Barton Weller artist in residence at the esteemed Massachusetts Institute of Technology, a testament to his profound impact on the realms of art and mathematics.
The artistic odyssey of Demaine commenced with an apprenticeship in glassblowing in England, prior to relocating to New Brunswick in the early 1970s, where he founded the inaugural one-man glass studio in Canada, the Demaine Studio, situated in the picturesque Miramichi Bay and subsequently relocated to the serene Opus Village in Mactaquac. This groundbreaking studio was an integral part of the global studio glass movement, and his creations from this era are proudly represented in the permanent collections of several esteemed museums, including the Canadian Museum of Civilization and the National Gallery of Canada.
Edward Demaine, a renowned figure in the world of art and mathematics, embarked on a journey of rediscovery after joining the prestigious Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). This time, his passion for glassblowing was reignited as an instructor at the esteemed MIT Glass Lab, where he has been tirelessly experimenting with innovative techniques. His creative endeavors have been meticulously designed as a puzzle for his fellow glassblowers, challenging them to push the boundaries of their craft.
Martin Demaine's personal life is marked by a fascinating blend of creativity and intellectual pursuits, mirroring the innovative spirit that defines his artistic endeavors. At the forefront of this multifaceted individuality is his role as a devoted father to Erik Demaine, a distinguished professor of Computer Science at MIT and a MacArthur Fellow, with whom he co-founded the Erik and Dad Puzzle Company in 1987, a pioneering venture that has allowed them to collaborate on a wide range of projects.
One of the most notable aspects of Martin and Erik's partnership is their shared passion for mathematical origami, a field that has garnered significant attention in recent years. Their collaborative efforts have led to numerous breakthroughs in this area, further solidifying their reputation as leading experts in the field. In addition to their work in origami, they have also made significant contributions to the study of the computational complexity of games and puzzles, a testament to their boundless intellectual curiosity.
Martin and Erik's remarkable professional partnership is also reflected in their personal lives, as they are both featured in the documentary film Between the Folds, which provides a captivating glimpse into the world of modern origami. This documentary serves as a testament to the Demaines' unique bond and their shared passion for innovative problem-solving, as they navigate the intricate world of origami and beyond.
Martin's unconventional educational approach, which did not involve a higher degree beyond his high school diploma, had a profound impact on his son Erik's academic journey. Erik's home-schooling experience, courtesy of his father, allowed him to achieve academic feats that were truly remarkable, including the completion of a Bachelor of Science degree at the tender age of 14.
This impressive accomplishment was only the beginning, as Erik went on to earn a Doctor of Philosophy degree at the age of 20, a feat that is truly unprecedented. His academic prowess did not go unnoticed, as he was subsequently appointed as a professor at MIT, a position that made him the youngest professor ever hired by the esteemed institution.
Martin and Erik's partnership continues to this day, with the duo pushing the boundaries of art, mathematics, and innovation. Their collaborative efforts have led to groundbreaking discoveries and creations, cementing their status as true visionaries in their respective fields.
Not only does Demaine's professional life encompass a unique blend of artistic and mathematical endeavors, but he also possesses a dual nationality, proudly holding citizenship in not one, but two esteemed countries: Canada, with its rich cultural heritage, and the United States, a nation renowned for its innovative spirit and diversity.
