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Zhen, Jingying "Small Universe: Exploring Microorganisms in Water From an Artistic Perspective." Master of Arts
, University of Northern Colorado, May of 2020
Keywords/Fields of Study : Digital Media, Microorganism, Artist perspective, Bio-Art
Abstract: Humans are infinitely small within the universe, but we are also infinitely huge compared to microorganisms. If we try to define a drop of water as a planet, extending the molecular structure of water to infinity, a new world will be discovered and displayed in front of us. For instance, when we use a microscope, the microorganisms in the water can be observed directly after being magnified numerous times, showing their unique configuration characteristics. This is the artistic beauty of science. Studying microbes in water is like exploring a new planet that has never been discovered.
The scope of this thesis was based on an artistic desire to explore and display microorganisms in water and present the viewers with an opportunity to discover an invisible world. This included research on three artists who have taken interest in unusual life forms. It also included my observation of real microorganisms under a microscope in biology lab. I found the beauty within the details of this miniature world; it was a different perspective.
The purpose of this study was to combine biology and art, traveling in the real and imaginary world, researching, exploring, and then showing microorganisms using multiple approaches within digital media. This interdisciplinary research method helped us to think about the beauty of science, the perfect vehicle to capture thoughts and images of this ‘moment in time,’ which was the outcome that this paper wants to convey.
Department: Art and Design
, University of Northern Colorado
Advisor(s): Anna Ursyn, Andrew Svedlow
