103568/Z/14/Z: Broad Vision: Engaging the public through art/science collaboration

Project Summary:The nature of what it means to be human is constantly shifting, in how we understand our own bodies, how we interface with technologies, and how we generate, consume and share knowledge. This project will critically and creatively explore the latest developments in the fields of synthetic biology, biotechnology and medicine through art/science collaboration. Pertinent biomedical research will be used as a stimulus for interdisciplinary inquiry for undergraduate students from the arts and science s to work together to grapple with complex issues and implications, in order to create artworks, participatory activities and experiences to further engage public audiences with the subjects under scrutiny. Building on previous experience and successes of the Broad Vision art/science research and learning project at the University of Westminster, we propose to generate novel outputs from interdisciplinary student research and produce wide reaching public engagement activity in the form of exh ibitions, talks, workshops and online resources. The themes for inquiry, changing each year, relate to human and technological interfaces, connectivity between mind and body, and our understanding of the very matter of life. Beneficiaries of the project will include gallery audiences, workshop participants and attendees of talks; students, lecturers and researchers from the arts and sciences; and people accessing the online legacy and resources. The exploratory approach of this project aims to open up possibilities for research-informed creative engagement and for innovative science communication.

Grant Holder:Ms Heather Barnett

Organisation:University of Westminster

Financial Year:2013/2014