Week 9

     As seen from previous lectures over the course, it is no surprise that scientists and artists often draw inspirations from one another to create innovative disciplines in their respective field. As introduced in lecture, the role of nanotechnology in particular has greatly contributed to space exploration. After buckyballs that carried helium of extraterrestrial origin were found in huge impact crater near sudbury, ontario, it prompted the theory that it is possible for organ compounds to survive impact if a meteorite like the buckyball can deliver carbon molecule to the earth's surface. Since then, with the assistance from the NASA telescope, astronomers were able to discover buckyballs in the form of solid which were not identified previously. Therefore, the study of space perfectly embodies that the impossible is made possible by incorporating sciences and technology into one. 

     Moreover, I find it intriguing that the development of science and technology can present us with a new genre of artistic expression: space art. Space art not only assists space engineers and scientists in exploring the realms of outer space, it also inspires and give insight to the greater audience through different forms of entertainment in the world of media. Since many outer space mysteries have yet to be solved, artists are able to use this to their advantage in creating works that explore the many possibilities of outer space. While some express criticisms towards the intrusion and disruption of space, some celebrate the marvels of the world.

    Recently, a NASA art installation in New York City is on display to provide those who are not familiar with the extraterrestrial world a chance to experience what life is like for an earth gazing satellite. A shell shaped art made out of aluminum is designed for audience to stand in the middle for a sound show that resembles the journey of a NASA satellite making its journey as they orbit the planet. Planners behind this installation express that they hope to serve as an inspiration for the general public, and  to especially arouse interest in the younger generation to enter the STEM field in the future.

Sources:

"NASA Art Exhibit Surrounds You with the Sounds of Space - INDIA'S PREMIER RSS FEED AGGREGATOR." INDIAS PREMIER RSS FEED AGGREGATOR. N.p., 30 May 2015. Web. 01 June 

2015. <http://indopulse.com/2015/05/30/nasa-art-exhibit-surrounds-you-with-the-sounds-of-space/>.

"NASA Art Exhibit Surrounds You with the Sounds of Space - EMMS Technology News." EMMS Technology News. N.p., 30 May 2015. Web. 01 June 2015. <http://www.emmsn.com/2015/05/nasa-art-exhibit-surrounds-you-with-the-sounds-of-space/>.

"How the Space Race Altered Art in the Americas." Hyperallergic RSS. N.p., 28 May 2015. Web. 01 June 2015. <http://hyperallergic.com/210102/how-the-space-race-altered-art-in-the-americas/>.

"NASA Art Exhibit Surrounds You with the Sounds of Space." Mashable. N.p., n.d. Web. 01 June 2015. <http://mashable.com/2015/05/30/nasa-art-earth-science/>.

  Vesna, Victoria. Lecture. DESMA 9. Web.  May. 2015.

Week 8

In 1959, Richard Feynman, a physicist suggested that the addition of nanotechnology of the atomic scale could quite possibly change the world. Today, this has indeed become true and the use of nanotechnology has permeated our society, benefiting the growth and evolution of humans in various ways. Feyman further asserted that on a nanoscale, the laws of physics are no longer applicable. Classic mechanisms like gravity developed by Isaac Newton are being pushed aside and instead, quantum effects such as surface tension and thermal jittering dominate.

Among the many applications of nanotechnology in today’s society, I was most intrigued by its pharmaceutical use. It is said that this new phenomenon is used to encapsulate drugs and even target specific tumors in the medicine field. Nanomedicine is apparently effective in reducing the toxicity in chemotherapy, proving once again that this new found small dimension offer great benefits to mankind.

Initially, I found the topic to be quite unfamiliar when first reviewing the lecture materials. However, I was surprised to find that some home appliances I own utilizes nanotechnology as well. Being a huge beauty addict, I’m always experimenting with the newest hair and beauty tools the market has to offer. In particular, I have found that nanotechnology in styling tools have been increasingly popular among beauty fanatics as they boast to revolutionize traditional models. For one, nanotechnolocy is known for its ability to eliminate bacteria. These innovative products claim to reduce users’ bacteria exposure when handling styling tools shared by multiple users. On the other hand, some products claim that nanometer molecules are able to penetrate deep into the hair shaft, repairing damaged hair and dramatically improving hair condition. Although nanotechnology at first glance might seem to be a foreign and obscure object, who knew that it is in fact so accessible!

                   
                               

Sources

"Nano Silver Technology For Clean Hair." Nano Silver Technology For Clean Hair. N.p., n.d. Web. 25 May 2015. <http://blog.myhairstylingtools.com/blog/nano-silver-technology-for-clean-hair/>.

"NanoTechnology 0n Hair Care." NanoTechnology On Hair Care. N.p., n.d. Web. 25 May 2015. <http://www.topbanana.us/nano_technology_0n_hair_care.htm>

 "Home." Nanotechnology in Cosmetic and Personal Care Industry. N.p., n.d. Web. 25 May 2015. <http://carefair.com/skincare/Nanotechnology_in_Cosmetic_1420.html>.

Gimzewski, James K. "Nanotech." University of California. Web. 24 May 2015. <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oKlViSKkPd0>.

"Nanotechnology & Skin Care." Nanotechnology & Skin Care. N.p., n.d. Web. 25 May 2015. <http://www.beautymagonline.com/sample-pages/1190-nanotechnology-2>.

       

Week 7
       Neuroscience and art have a very unique relationship. The brain itself, much like the rest of human anatomy is like a work of art to scientists while artists could only create art with the works of the brain [1]. Thus, art could be said to be governed by the laws of brain. It is the brains that see the art and it is the brains that make the art. Despite such close relations, the concept of neuroscience is relatively new. Due to its complex nature, much of the information regarding the brain has evolved over the last century owing to the innovation in the fields of science and technology. Ramon y Cajal in particular, was considered to be the founder of neuroanatomy and was recognized to be one of the pioneers exploring neuron theory. [2]

       One concept I found particularly interesting is the concept of lines. In reality, no object nor living being is outlined. However, if the surroundings is transferred onto paper as a piece of art work with defined outlined drawings, humans are likely to recognize and identify the objects and people in it [3]. According to scientific studies, such capabilities of identification is in fact the same neural processes that allows us to recognize the edges of objects we observe in the real world [4]. An example of an infamous artwork that emphasizes the way our visual system perceives drawings is Da Vinci's Mona Lisa. The portrait is drawn so that when the audience's eyes shift focus, the women's expression appears to change. For example, Mona Lisa would appear to smile less when staring at her mouth compared to when staring straight into her eyes [5]. Utilizing the way human's peripheral visual system function, artists are thus able to produce art that are perceived completely differently depending on the angle.  

     As the field of sciences and technology continue to progress and advance, I believe that these innovations would bring out different dimensions of art and allow the larger society to visualize art objectively.

Sources:

[1]"Art and the Limits of Neuroscience." Opinionator Art and the Limits of Neuroscience Comments. N.p., 04 Dec. 2011. Web. 15 May 2015. <http://opinionator.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/12/04/art-and-the-limits-of-neuroscience/?_r=0>.

[2]Vesna, Victoria. “Lecture.” Week 7: Neuroscience + Art. 2015. Web. 15 May 2015

[3] "The Neuroscience Of Art: How The Human Brain Engages With, Responds To, And Perceives Art." FEELguide. N.p., n.d. Web. 16 May 2015. <http://www.feelguide.com/2012/09/17/the-neuroscience-of-art-how-the-human-brain-engages-with-responds-to-and-perceives-art/>.

[4]"What the Brain Draws From: Art and Neuroscience - CNN.com." CNN. Cable News Network, n.d. Web. 16 May 2015. <http://www.cnn.com/2012/09/15/health/art-brain-mind/index.html?hpt=hp_c1>.

[5]"Mona Lisa's Smile." - Science Updates. N.p., n.d. Web. 15 May 2015. <http://sciencenetlinks.com/science-news/science-updates/mona-lisas-smile/>.

 Week 6

     Much like the art and science collaborations we covered in prior week’s lectures, the relationship between biotechnology and art is likewise innovative and experimental. By combining scientific processes and art, biotech art is able to draw attention to details of nature that we might otherwise never see. Among all the materials I have review this week, I was most intrigued by Euardo Kac’s transgenic artwork, the “GFP bunny”.

     By integrating green fluorescent protein into the genome through zygote microinjection, Eduardo Kac was able to transgene an ordinary white skin, pink -eyed bunny into one that glows when illuminated with correct light. Although there are popular notions that genetically engineered organisms are unethical and monstrous, Kac has asserted that Alba, the bunny’s physical traits are identical to any ordinary albino rabbits [1]. However, Alba is at the same time unique from any regular albino rabbits, which I find to be very fascinating.In the article, he mentioned that he regarded the integration of the creation into society at large as the most important part of the transgenic process.  This concept specially resonated with me. Rather than just creating a genetic object, the creation, socialization and interaction is one single process [2], which brings me to the next point that biotechnology art still remains to be very controversial in our society due to social and ethical concerns.

                                        

     Among the many examples of biotechnology art, genetically modified foods (GM foods) are likely the most relatable.  These foods are produced from organisms whose genetic material has been artificially manipulated through genetic engineering [3]. While there is a broad consensus that GM food on the market pose no risks to human health than conventional food, there are also opponents objecting GM crops on the basis of environmental impact [4]. Although GMO foods are more resistant to insect pests, it also risks having modified genes of the organisms escaping into the wild. When these herbicide resistant genes cross into the wild weed population, opponents are worried that it will create “superweeds” that are impossible to kill with herbicides and will eventually out-compete natural animals and plants [5].

                                      

     Therefore, I think that while artificial creation allows us to explore new realms of nature that we are not familiar with, it can also lead to collateral damage if not practice wisely. In the case of Alba the bunny, no harm is caused to the physique of the bunny itself nor the environment as it is under the care of its creator. However, in the case of GM crops, long term impacts are still unknown and once introduced, there's no turning back. Thus, there are no doubt ethical and social concerns with their development and introduction into the environment.

Sources:

[1]"GFP BUNNY." GFP BUNNY. N.p., n.d. Web. 10 May 2015. <http://www.ekac.org/gfpbunny.html#gfpbunnyanchor>.

[2]"Transgenic Bunny by Eduardo Kac." Transgenic Bunny by Eduardo Kac. N.p., n.d. Web. 10 May 2015. <http://www.genomenewsnetwork.org/articles/03_02/bunny_art.shtml>.

[3] "Center for Food Safety | Issues | GE Foods | About GE Foods." Center for Food Safety. N.p., n.d. Web. 10 May 2015. <http://www.centerforfoodsafety.org/issues/311/ge-foods/about-ge-foods#>.

[4] "The Pros and Cons of GMO." Genetically Engineered Food News. N.p., n.d. Web. 10 May 2015. <http://geneticallyengineeredfoodnews.com/the-pros-and-cons-of-gmo>.

Midterm Project

https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B_TlghLoQEKMVHpNMld0ZFl3emc/view?usp=sharing