Science is generally considered the realm of geeky, pocket protector-types; the arts, stereotypically, attract free-spirited conformity-haters covered in paint splatters.
But there's plenty of art in science, and plenty of science in art, as Miami Museum of Science's "Images of Science" demonstrates. The exhibit, presented by the Max Planck Florida Foundation, features 40 striking photographs of scientific research from around the world.
"These
pictures provide an insight into scientific discoveries within various
disciplines, and at the same time, they invite us to look at the world
in new ways and broaden our perception," explains Dr. Claudia Hillinger, Vice
President of Institute Development and President of Max Planck Florida
Foundation.
The photographs are the product of the research of scientists in 80
institutes and research facilities, each selected by a panel
including architects, photographers, and journalists. They all offer plenty of aesthetic appeal, as well as a hearty helping of scientific interest -- meaning that in addition to being beautiful, each says something profound about the way the world works.
The images are science, nature and art in one, striking in color,
structure and composition. At first, they appear abstract; to the untrained eye, they can be difficult to decipher. But the
images are nevertheless artistic and beautiful. And they're more than mere pretty pictures; they also bear witness to the research of the Max Planck
Foundation in many scientific disciplines such as microbiology, pace
science, and chemistry. Time and again, science pushes boundaries into
unknown territory and renders the previously invisible, visible.
"Images of Science," broadens viewers' perception, letting us view science as art while
changing our ideas about what nature and science looks like. The images
also invite us to learn more about the research and what is developing
in various scientific fields today.
The exhibition's images
include "Nanowires with Golden Locks," in which a scanning electron
microscope enables researchers to watch as gold-capped silicon nanowires "grow" in response to exposure to superheated silicon vapor; "Caught
In A Net," where white blood cells are surrounding and devouring
bacteria; and "Disco," a globe on the hunt for electrons. Scientists use
high-energy light from a laser to knock electrons out of matter, and the
electrons' movements teach the scientists about the structure and
properties of the material.
"Images of Science" will be on view
for the first time in Miami after traveling to prestigious museums and
embassies in Germany, Austria, and Thailand. Check out the exhibition at the Miami
Science Museum between March 29 and September 2012.
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