An art-science innovation space
How to design a location for the intersection of arts and science
I have previously written about how our lab in Berlin has been hosting artists-in-residence, and how we as scientists specifically have profited from this interaction. It would be great to develop this type of interaction further, for example by dedicating a space (a room) to this interaction, like an art-science innovation space, where artists and scientists can work together and together create something new.
Now the question: what should be in such a room, what should it be like?
I am guessing such a room should have flexible work stations, which can be used by artists and scientists. Maybe there can be partitions, so the room could be flexibly divided up into different sections.
What should be stocked in the workspace? Perhaps there should be art supplies, like paints, pencils, paper, and other art supplies. But there should also be some basic lab equipment, or perhaps this can be sourced from a nearby science lab on an as-needed basis? I am thinking about something connected to what our lab does, of course, so perhaps some very basic equipment, such as Petri dishes, microscopes. But maybe this is not even needed in such a space. Maybe it needs something more general, like 3D-printers and other equipment that could be used for prototyping. Things to tinker with, a maker space.
There should definitely be whiteboards, projectors, and large areas for drawing and sketching. Lots of paper and cardboard.
It should be cozy, a nice place where you want to linger. Maybe snacks and drinks, comfy furniture; it should have at least one part that is like a lounge.
Perhaps there should be an exhibition space attached or integrated into this space, where some of the products can be displayed, serving as a source of inspiration.
The place might have a small interdisciplinary library, catering both to the arts and the science being done in the lab.
It would be important to fill the place with life through workshops and brainstorming sessions, or regularly scheduled events, maybe where scientists and artists (and others, including designers, journalists) share some of their latest results and ideas. Artists could be visiting as part of residencies, and scientists could wander in during their workdays or during regularly scheduled times.
If you could dream, what would you put in such a space to get it started? Let me know in the comments. Also if you know of such a space I would immensely appreciate any pointers.
I'm a big fan of big open social spaces, but with the option to retreat to private quiet space for concentration work. Comfy furniture, good coffee etc. of course are a given! :)
I gave a lectures Bio intro for artists in such space at "Yamaa Art residence" Atyrau, Kazakhstan. What I liked, they have a big room/hall with panoramic windows on one side and that hall is kind of transformer with movable walls in the middle. The furniture are wooden all comfortable; tables can be separated or brought together, folding chairs that you can bring or store depends on number of people. yes, they have a storage room, with all supplies and equipment they have, also they store the art pieces that were created there and exhibit them time to time. I will be interested in if you announce your art and science place after est. I am with my art friends trying to create soil project on that perspective with art&science and we are looking for residence for the next year. Also, I would suggest you if you can create a small growing spots/greenhouse pots/boxes that will be useful; video cameras or tools that can make 3D videos; and some sound lab/apps/tools. Good luck!