Small Worlds Exhibit Celebrates Intersections of Science and Art

“I didn’t grow up with gardening, but I’m a nurturer, I see the connections.” Artist Rene Williams walks me through her newly renovated greenhouse discussing her latest Science Loves Art exhibit, small worlds, and inspiration she finds in plants while running the tips of her fingers through dill and basil releasing the herbal oils. Williams is an outreach and education partner with Wyoming EPSCoR’s Track 1 Micro project who uses scientific artifacts and objects found in nature to create art.

Photo by Gregg Kerr

Small Worlds was motivated by a desire to introduce the community to microbes in an approachable way. “Small things can be seen and are appreciated,” explains Williams. By focusing on small things found in nature, the exhibit established a sense of place and wonder among attendees. In addition, attendees were encouraged to see what is unseen through the microscopes. As passersby peered deeper into the looking glass, “people shocked by what they couldn’t see that became visible under the microscope.” Many scientists submitted pieces and several from EPSCoR’s Micro project proudly displayed their work including, Sarah Konrad EPSCoR Deputy Director, Gregg Kerr DNA liquid handling facility lab manager, Linda van Diepen project CoPI and scientist, and Abby Hoffman graduate student in botany. Title of scientist was not a requirement for the exhibit; artists just had to convey their appreciation for the small worlds. When asked what surprised her most about the exhibit’s opening night, Williams enthusiastically recounts how passionate the scientists were about displaying their work, the creative process behind it, and connections to their research.

Mixed Media by Abby Hoffman

Through this exhibit, and Williams’ work in general, art is the communication tool used to describe science. The exhibit is a welcoming way to learn about science, meet scientist, and learn about their work. She explains, “the key to talking about science with the general public is that you don’t have to label everything as science.” The beauty of the natural world connects science and curiosity. “We’re not convincing the public to like science because they already like it. They just don’t like the label.”

Mixed Media by Lynne Boddy

Check out the Fermentation Festival later this summer for another opportunity to get to know microbes in a fun, tasty, and approachable manner!