The Symbiosis Between Art and Science

The world seems intent on dividing things into art and science. This is apparent in the inaccurate notion that people are either left-brained or right-brained. Society possesses the characterization that a person can only be analytical or creative. A person will attempt to define herself as an “art person” or a “science person.” There is no in-between area presented in society, which gives rise to stereotypes of both fields.

In popular culture, scientists are often portrayed as emotionless machines. However, scientific research requires creativity. With science and art, one has to be detail-oriented, but be aware of the big picture at the same time (Cole 1998). A painter puts intricate details in the artwork that contribute to the entire painting, while a scientist may remove a single protein in a system to see the effects on a larger scale. Other important skills that are found in both professions are the ability to visualize ideas and theories, as well as the ability to pick out patterns in the world (Cole 1998).

The rigid categorization creates a gap between them, which is harmful to society. Scientific problems cannot be solved solely by logic; they require creative solutions (Cole 1998). Art has a beneficial impact on scientific research: it helps scientists observe and form different perspectives to be able to solve problems and make progress on improving the world.

A main component that can benefit both fields revolves around how it is communicated to the audience. An audience wants to understand, and needs to understand, especially if it is important art or research being shared (Featherstone 2016). When science is shared in a creative way, more people can understand and appreciate it. Presenting scientific work in lecture form does not work for everyone. It can be dull and unappealing. However, when researchers find more creative ways to share their work, the science is more accessible.

Accessible science is very important. The purpose of research goes beyond helping to understand the world; it works to improve it as well. Many scientific studies deal with potential health benefits and risks, as well as other fields that have a direct impact on everyone. But there is no direct blanket statement with science. It takes years and years of studies to determine a causative relationship. Scientific jargon is also confusing. While a “theory” might be a suggestion in colloquial terms, in science, it is supported by a plethora of evidence. Science needs to be communicated as accurately as possible, so the knowledge can be shared.

Strict categorization and preconceived notions of science and art are very detrimental towards children who are deciding what career they want to pursue. Even though both professions are important and valuable, parents might push children to science because it is viewed as more prestigious. Young adults with amazing artistic abilities may forgo art and turn to a career that does not bring them any happiness. On the other side, someone might be worried about being a scientist because she or he is personable and out-going, which are stereotypically not characteristics of scientists.

Creating a rift between science and art is pointless. Many people participate in both art and science, and many people enjoy both (Cole 1998). Similar skills are honed and can be used throughout life. There is importance in having children take both art classes and science classes, while not emphasizing one over the other. Being bad at art is seen as more okay than being bad at science, which is absurd. Everyone has something they are good at, and it does not matter if it is art or science or something else.

It is also necessary to emphasize the importance of art itself. It is not a means; it is an end. Art is not simply a tool you use, it is a product that is in place (Bequette and Bequette 2012). With the discussion of interdisciplinary work, it is focused on using art to further science. The relationship between science and art is not just art helping science (Bequette and Bequette 2012). There needs to be a symbiosis between the two fields, with both of them treated equally.

Art is important. It can show different perspectives about the world. It can give a person meaning and direction in life. It can connect people and join them together, even if they are vastly different. Art should not be understated.

The connection between art and science is important. The two fields are incredibly similar, and yet they are treated as complete opposites. With emphasizing this connection, it can help people interact with both subjects and expand their knowledge of the world, while also helping the world directly.

Citations

Bequette, J. W. and Bequette, M. B. 2012. “A Place for ABT and DESIGN Education in the STEM Conversation.” Art Education 65 (2): 40-7. Retrieved from: https://www.jstor.org/stable/41479773

Cole, K.C. “Why the Arts Are Important to Science.” LA Times. August 13, 1998. Retrieved from: https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1998-aug-13-me-12745-story.html

Featherstone, D. “Why Art And Science Are More Closely Related Than You Think.” Forbes. March 16, 2016. Retrieved from: https://www.forbes.com/sites/quora/2016/03/16/why-art-and-science-are-more-closely-related-than-you-think/#5be967a469f1