BioPoetics and Science Integration
NSCI405-01
Start Date
05/28
Time
10am–1pm
Format
Remote
End Date
06/05
Meeting Day
Wed thru Sat and Mon thru Thu
Credits
3
BioPoetics and Science Integration explores the intersection of biology, art, and design, focusing on how biological concepts, scientific inquiry, research, and discoveries can inspire creative expression, experimental practice, and innovative applications. This course examines the use of biological metaphors, poetics, natural history imagery, symbolism, and narratives in artistic and design practices, emphasizing their role in science communication and community engagement. Through discussions, public engagement projects, and interdisciplinary collaboration, students investigate how biological themes shape visual culture, storytelling, and interactive experiences. The course encourages critical thinking about the relationship between science and creativity, artist-scientist collaborations, and considers ethical, ecological, technological, societal, and political dimensions. By integrating scientific knowledge and research with artistic methods, students develop new approaches to communicating, visualizing, and contextualizing complex biological ideas in novel and inclusive ways.
This online class uses the ZOOM platform.
Class also includes optional field trips.
Schedule
Zoom meetings 10am – 1pm
May 28, 29, 30, 31
June 2, 3, 4, 5
BFA Students: This class can satisfy a summative elective.
Saúl Nava
Saúl Nava is a biologist, Professor of Biology and Life Sciences and Chair of the newly created Department of Integrative Sciences and Biological Arts at Massachusetts College of Art and Design. His research focuses on the ecology and evolution of animal behavior, communication, and vision. He conducts field work studying lizard behavior and ecology and … Read more