Art

Science parallels art as a subject matter and a source of inspiration.

Here at Science World, we are delighted to work with local artists who are interested in and inspired by science. You will see their artwork on the walls in the dome. Past displays have included work by Peter Holmes, Sharon Kallis, Jan de Beer, Andy Wright, Woonam Kim, Jackie Dives, Pat Kane, Mark Igliolorte and Bettina Harvey. We also host an annual display of the Nikon Small World Photomicrography Competition winners, and hosted Art the Science’s RE:Composition digital art show.

Current Exhibits

30 Days of Ramadan

Inside CERN

Bronze Sculptures of Drs James Till and Ernest McCulloch

Humans from different cultures and belief systems across the world have been fasting for centuries, but we aren’t the only ones. In 30 Days of Ramadan, graphic designer and visual artist Mustaali Raj shows how fasting plays an important role in the livelihood of animals as well—regulating aspects of their reproduction, development, hibernation, estivation, and migration.

Throughout the month of Ramadan, this series offers a daily exploration of fasting in the animal kingdom. Mustaali depicts wolves, elephants, snakes, whales, and other animals in a bold, blocky style inspired by Square Kufic calligraphy traditionally found in Islamic regions, notably in architecture.

His playful graphics tug at our innate child-like curiosity, allowing us to find joy in learning while nurturing a deeper connection with nature.

30 Days of Ramadan is on display in our Atrium until June 20.

Andri Pol spent significant time documenting the day-to-day life at CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, one of the world's largest and most respected centres for scientific research. The results show a place that is delightfully unassuming and complex at once – brimming with an ordered chaos, full of ordinary office vignettes juxtaposed with images of impressive, specialized instruments. Deep conversations about the nature of the universe in contrast with joyful lunchtime chit chat. These photos describe in perfect detail the humanity of both the subjects and the subject they explore; just what is the nature of the universe?

Inside CERN is part of Innovation Fest, on display in our Atrium from April 21–July 24.

To celebrate the 55th anniversary of the discovery of stem cells—a discovery pioneered by Canadian scientists, Drs. James Till and Ernest McCulloch—STEMCELL Technologies Inc. gifted Science World with bronze sculptures of the scientists created by artist Ruth Abernethy.

As a charitable organization, we value donations from the community to help promote science literacy across the province.

These sculptures sit outside our entrance as a representation of a proud moment in Canadian scientific history, and a recognition of Canadians as the forerunners of stem cell research.

The findings of Drs. Till and McCulloch has led to advances in research and treatment of cancer and continues to be developed by researchers all over the world, such as the research by Dr. Connie Eaves (of the BC Cancer Research Centre) who worked with Dr. Till.

Next to these sculptures are three "empty" stools denoting a space for scientists from all backgrounds to engage with this work; celebrating the past, challenging the present and looking towards a brighter future.

Artist Contact Form

We have space available throughout the year to display artwork that aligns with our mission to ignite wonder and empower dreams through science and nature. We are taking proposals from artists whose work:

Brings together art and science in a creative way
Uses art as a lens through which to examine, express, or experiment with scientific theories, processes or principles or;
Explores the human and social impact of science
We love work that sparks the curiosity of the public and invites questions and/or participation
2D and 3D works, digital art, as well as performance and time-based work will be considered

Fees

Honorariums are offered for both single artist and group shows. We also offer to host an opening reception with light refreshments provided by Science World, free to the public, on an evening in the first week of installation if the artist so chooses.

Timeframe

Displays typically range from about 8-16 weeks in length. We are booking for the 2022-24 calendar years, dependent on space available.

If you are interested in your artwork being displayed, please fill out the form below.

Please note: Due to the volume of submissions, we are not able to respond to each one individually. Thank you so much for your interest, and we'll be in touch if there's a fit and a time we think will work!

Art

Included with admission.