In ancient times and during the Renaissance, scientists and artists were often one and the same. Today, only “scientific geniuses” are considered to be polymaths—people with extensive knowledge on a variety of subjects.
Yet, arts and creative avocations in scientists are more common than typically portrayed. Now more than ever, people are recognizing and exploring how art and science interact and influence each other, within research fields and scientist-artists themselves.
Join Kendra Oliver, assistant professor of pharmacology and director and founder of ArtLab, for our next Lab-to-Table Conversation, in which we will explore how a group of self-identified scientist-artists are embracing this particular duality.
This month, the event will take place on July 27, noon–1 p.m. CT, and will feature panelists:
- Ian Macara – chair of the department of cell and developmental biology
- Navya Thakkar – Vanderbilt A&S alumna who studied biology and studio art, winner of the Margaret Stonewall Wooldridge Hamblet Award
- Kate Mittendorf – senior staff scientist at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, illustrator and Vanderbilt graduate
- Jacob Steenwyk – scientific consultant at LatchBio, founder and chief officer of The SciArt Shop and Vanderbilt graduate
The panelists will discuss their individual identities as both scientists and artists, showcase their art and research, and discuss the influence of art on science and science on art.
The event is free, virtual and open to the public. Registration is required.