Exploring the hidden world of bacteria by bridging art and science
Four different species of cyanobacteria. Photo courtesy of Erin Espelie, Evan Johnson and the Jeffrey Cameron Laboratory.
Through a series of films, canvases and a dynamic living wall, the REFRESH exhibition invites audiences to contemplate the impact of prehistoric organisms on our planet and their potential in shaping a cleaner future.
Associate professor and filmmaker Erin Espelie and Jeffrey Cameron, assistant professor of chemistry, first met at a CU Boulder Research & Innovation Office workshop, where they recognized a unique opportunity to combine their expertise and collaborate at the intersection of biochemistry and the arts.
During three years of research and creative work, this art-science collaboration delved into the intricate movement of cyanobacteria. Espelie’s documentary focused on innovative ways to ethically record the natural world, while Cameron’s work centered around using advanced microscopy and synthetic biology, and how ancient organisms can be used to solve modern problems.
Viewers explore different species of cyanobacteria at the REFRESH exhibition. Photo courtesy of Erin Espelie, Evan Johnson and the Jeffrey Cameron Laboratory.
Principal investigators
Jeffrey Cameron; Erin Espelie
Funding
Research & Innovation Seed Grant Program
Collaboration + support
Nature, Environment, Science & Technology (NEST) Studio for the Arts; Research & Innovation Office; Microbiologist and cinematographer Evan Johnson and artists Will Alstetter, Travis Austin, Nima Bahrehmand
Learn more about this topic:
Filmmakers Collaborate to Reveal New Perspectives on the Microscopic World of Bacteria