The Softer Side of Science

October 22, 2007

What do seaweed and a computer network have in common? They have an inherent pattern that optimizes the use of material while covering as much area as possible. Artist Jeffrey Nickerson demonstrates the concept behind these patterns in his piece “Range,” which is on display as part of Digital ’07, a digital print competition and exhibition hosted by Art & Science Collaborations, Inc. The theme of this year’s show, which is being held at the New York Hall of Science, is “pattern finding.” You have until January 27, 2008, to check it out.

Not only are the pieces beautiful (see here), but they explore science and technology, including chaos and string theory, fractals, genetics, and mathematical data-sets.

For example, Peter N. Gray uses information from DNA structure, sequences, and single nucleotide permutations to create his works.

Mark Fischer visualizes the sounds of a Minke whale recorded in the north Pacific using wavelet transforms (left).

Charles Thurston creates images derived from digital noise patterns to show the interplay between randomness and coherence.

If you attend the show, write back and tell me what you thought.

Comments

[Mysterymeat]

I like Thurston's pieces the most. And noticed that if you let your focus go blurry you can sometimes see other things. Though it took hours, in his "Form & Motion #2", I eventually came to clearly see Bluto from Popeye, and it was worth it. Leaves lots to the imagination - which is where science and art often meet.