The art of science - Science and Art are not as different as we think | Kristin Levier | TEDxUIdaho

Summary

This engaging presentation explores the dynamic intersection of art and science, inspired by Leonardo da Vinci's legacy. It features contemporary artists who seamlessly blend these fields, such as Zoe Keller, who researches ecosystems for her drawings, and Adrien Siegel, who transforms scientific data into stunning sculptures. The speaker shares their journey from scientist to artist, emphasizing the importance of curiosity and creativity. By challenging traditional boundaries, they highlight how pursuing passions in both disciplines can lead to remarkable discoveries and innovations, ultimately showcasing the beauty of this interdisciplinary approach.

Takeaways

• 🎨 Leonardo da Vinci was not only a master painter but also a pioneer in various fields, exemplifying the connection between art and science.
• 📚 The perception that art and science are opposing disciplines is a modern construct; historically, they were intertwined during the Renaissance.
• 🔬 Personal experiences with science can inspire artistic pursuits, as demonstrated by the speaker's early fascination with microbiology.
• 🌿 Contemporary artists like Zoe Keller emphasize the importance of research in their work, creating art that highlights environmental issues.
• 📈 Adrien Siegel transforms scientific data into artistic sculptures, making complex information visually accessible and engaging.
• 💎 The collaboration between artists and natural processes, such as caddisflies creating jewel-encrusted cases, showcases innovative artistic techniques.
• ☁️ Artists like Björk experiment with natural phenomena, such as cloud-making, merging art with environmental science.
• 🌱 Rob Kessler utilizes electron microscopy to create visually stunning images of plant structures, merging scientific inquiry with artistic expression.
• ✨ The journey from science to art can be enriching, as the speaker demonstrates their transition from a successful research career to a thriving art practice.
• 🌍 Embracing both artistic and scientific passions can lead to unique and meaningful work that transcends traditional boundaries.

Q & A

What fields did Leonardo da Vinci impact beyond painting?

Leonardo da Vinci made significant contributions to architecture, weapon design, human anatomy, and civil engineering, among other fields.

How many notebook pages did Leonardo da Vinci leave behind?

Leonardo da Vinci left behind approximately 13,000 notebook pages filled with writings, drawings, and invention plans.

What distinction is often made between artists and scientists today?

Today, artists are often seen as right-brain dominant, focusing on intuition and creativity, while scientists are viewed as left-brain dominant, emphasizing logic and analysis.

What was the speaker's early experience with science?

The speaker had a formative experience in a microbiology class at six years old, where they observed microorganisms under a microscope, igniting their interest in both art and science.

What is Zoe Keller known for in her artwork?

Zoe Keller creates art about vanishing and threatened ecosystems, using extensive research and collaboration with scientists to inform her drawings.

How does Adrien Siegel represent scientific data in her sculptures?

Adrien Siegel transforms tidal data into sculptural pieces that visually represent ocean levels and high tide times, allowing for a more intuitive understanding of the data.

What unique collaboration does the artist Boo-bear undertake?

Boo-bear collaborates with caddisflies to create tiny jeweled sculptures by replacing their natural materials with gold and precious gems, guiding them in the construction of their cases.

What is the process used by Baroness Hilda to create clouds in his art?

Baroness Hilda studies cloud formation and experiments in his studio to produce man-made clouds that exist temporarily and are then photographed for his artwork.

What role does Rob Kessler's artistic vision play in his microscopy work?

Rob Kessler uses his artistic eye to enhance electron microscope images of plant life, making them visually stunning while also providing scientific insights into their structures.

What motivated the speaker to transition from science to art?

The speaker's long-standing love for art, combined with their scientific background, led them to pursue a career in art, focusing on themes related to nature and emotion.