Leonardo Abstracts Service (LABS) | Leonardo

Leonardo Abstracts Service is an evolving, comprehensive database of graduate thesis abstracts (PhD, Master's and MFA) on topics at the intersection of the arts, sciences and technology. Persons who have received advanced degrees in arts (visual, sound, performing, text), computer sciences, the sciences and/or technology that in some way investigate philosophical, historical, critical or applications of science or technology to the arts are invited to submit an abstract of their thesis for publication consideration in this database. This English-language database was initiated at Pomona College (Claremont, CA) and is part of the Leonardo Educators and Students program.

In addition to being published in the Leonardo Abstracts Service database, a selection of top abstracts chosen by a peer review panel is published annually in Leonardo journal and on this website (see links above). Authors of abstracts most highly ranked by the panel are also invited to submit an article for publication consideration in Leonardo. The aim of Leonardo Abstracts Service is not to duplicate existing thesis databases but rather to give visibility to interdisciplinary work, which is often hard to retrieve from existing databases.

The international peer review panel is made up of academics and artists and is chaired by Leonardo Graduate Abstracts editors Mary Anne Staniszewski and Yiannis Colakides. Sheila Pinkel, who originated the database over twenty years ago, is retiring as editor.

How to Submit a Thesis Abstract

Beginning in summer 2021, submissions of thesis abstracts will be through the Leonardo website. Here you may also browse those currently published in the English-language database. The deadline for receipt of abstracts for review by the Leonardo Graduate Abstracts peer review panel is June 30 each year. Abstract rankings are announced in the fall.

Suggestions For Writing Your Abstract
  • In the first paragraph clearly describe your project or research question(s).
  • In the text clarify the relationship of art to technology and/or science in your project.
  • Give examples of works that reflect your exploration or thesis.
  • Provide an accessible link to your thesis.
  • Summarize your final work(s) or outcome of your research.