Nanomaterials, with at least one dimension that is smaller than the wavelength of light, are impossible to see with the naked eye or even a light microscope. Our collaborative project between chemistry and art seeks to visualize nanomaterials, illuminating the fascinating features of nanomaterials that are invisible to the naked eye. Along the way, we aim to explore the interplay of natural and man-made nanomaterials, highlighting their pervasiveness while contemplating the balance between the benign / beneficial and harmful impacts.
Taking inspiration from collectives and artist groups that have emerged as powerful mainstream fine arts practitioners, we have formed the Nano-ha Artist Collective. The collective members will work together as a unit to create artworks and explore scientific discoveries. We seek to privilege the process of production and emphasize less on authorship and ownership in an effort to encourage deep, interdisciplinary and cross-generational collaboration.
by Giulia Mantovani (SCU, B.S. Biochemistry '23)
Blog post for the NSF Center for Sustainable Nanotechnology July 19, 2024