Art in Silico started with a conversation between Amanda Stump, the associate director of research and development at the Institute of Computing and Cybersystems (ICC), and Timothy Havens, the Director of the ICC. They imagined a unique companion spring showcase to the fall computing showcase, and what resulted was a computational art show known as Art in Silico.
This is the third year of Art in Silico, showcasing computing at MTU while also exploring technology’s place in art. The show has featured a limitless variety of pieces, including data visualizations, digital/mixed media, interactive experiences, AI-driven creations, and experimental music. Many of these pieces explore where the defining line of art is, and are actively bridging the gap between art and technology.
As a computer scientist and engineer, Haven says, “The creative process is important for advanced science, whether it’s developing creative ways to express your science to other people, or just having a creative process that allows you to see beyond the threshold of the existing knowledge base of the world.” In a space where innovation takes form, Art in Silico is developing this skill among students; Haven observed that students do not usually consider themselves artists before participating in the show, but often see themselves as more artistic afterward.
On Mar. 24 at 3:30 p.m. in the MUB Alumni Lounge, keynote speaker Martin Krzywinski will cover how to present information in a way that is clear, concise, and visually striking. The event is titled, “Explain visually, explain well. Practice and philosophy of scientific communication.” On Mar. 25, at 4 p.m., Krzywinski will host a creative workshop in Rekhi 112, allowing students to receive feedback on projects.
On Apr. 1 at 11:30 a.m., students from the University of Ottawa will present their semester-long projects to the Art in Silico audience over Zoom. On Apr. 2, at 3:30 p.m. in the GLRC room 202, keynote speaker Sarah Bell will follow the history of voice synthesis outlined in her book, “Vox ex Machina: A Cultural History of Talking Machines”.
The main exhibition will be open between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. on Apr 2-4, at the Copper Country Community Art Center (CCCAC). The opening reception will be held on Apr. 3, at the CCCAC from 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m., followed by the main reception held at The Orpheum Theater from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Submissions are open until Friday, Mar. 28 at midnight. For more information go to the MTU Art in Silico website.
