Jack Madden – Abyss without vertigo: Astrophysics through art research

Are we alone? How did the universe begin? What’s beyond the event horizon? The goals of astrophysics research and many pure sciences have an inherently artistic subtext. How do we process the answers? Art can play the role of cultural communicator in a more emotive way than traditional science communication. Whether through the spectacular colorization of James Webb images, the playful curiosity with new technology of Nam June Paik’s work, or Zaria Forman’s call to climate action through pastels, art can bottle data into something that resonates in a more human way. The success of these efforts depends on artists learning the principles and research methods of science while also asking scientists to welcome in individuals who are trained to stir emotion. In this talk, I will explore the value of art research when applied to science through my experiences as an astrophysicist and artist.

Contact:
Mary Pat McCullough, mpm1@uchicago.edu