SciArt Magazine - All Issues December 2015 | Page 22
SPACES & PLACES
Art.
Science.
Gallery.
By Megan Guerber
Contributor
One theme that comes up time and again when
discussing the expansive field of science–based art
is how much the two seemingly different disciplines
of art and science actually have in common. Observation, problem solving, exploration, and a desire
to understand the world around us are just a few of
the connections between the two. Yet society often
places these fields at opposite ends of the spectrum,
judging that science values reason, while art values
emotion and beauty. Of course, these are both naïve
assumptions about two complex forms of study
that, when broken down, are far more similar than
different.
Visual thinking, for example, is equally as important in the field of physics as it is in the realm of
sculpture. In addition, the intrinsic value of both
art and science is demonstrated via the exploration
and questioning ingrained within their processes.
Likewise, as is well understood by those who work
in the arts and sciences, you cannot always predict
your results. How often does a painting turn out as
you imagined? How does what you learn during the
process of painting itself affect your perspective?
And finally, why does allowing oneself to be guided
by ‘process’ draw unexpected, incalculable connections that often lead to new understandings?
This is true for both the arts and sciences. What
science–based artists have figured out is how well
these two disciplines work in tandem and can build upon
each other to reach unconquered ground: wider understanding of their discoveries.
ways to explore complex scientific themes. The gallery’s
attentional focus is on the natural sciences, and works to
help the public reach new understandings of the pressing
environmental concerns that face us in 2015.
One center in particular works with science–based
artists, their surrounding communities, and other partners to expand the appreciation for and accessibility of
the sciences through the visual arts. Located in Austin,
Texas, Art.Science.Gallery. focuses on the communication of science and the many fun, exciting, and enriching
Art.Science.Gallery. uniquely strives to reach out to
a broad audience to engage in and learn from science
as well as to scientists to engage in and learn from art.
Founder and director Dr. Hayley Gillespie explained,
“For people who resonate more with the visual, the arts
can be a more approachable and meaningful way to en-
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Art.Science.Gallery. window. Photo credit: Art.Science.Gallery.
SciArt in America December 2015