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More than 700 people took part in the National Science Week activities hosted by ANU this month.
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Dr Tim Wetherell explores the nexus between science and art. |
The ANU College of Science coordinated lectures, demonstrations and displays in Canberra, Melbourne, Sydney and Adelaide.
The week-long celebration began on 12 August with a battle of the bands at Tilley’s café in Lyneham, where researchers were able to demonstrate their right-brained capabilities and musical prowess.
The intersection of science and art was also the subject of a lecture at the National Museum given by Dr Tim Wetherell from the Research School of Physical Sciences and Engineering.
A physicist, sculptor, and science communicator, Dr Wetherell spoke about the way science and art can complement one another in making sense of the world.
“Art has the very real role of conveying the possibilities of science,” he said. “Scientists are sometimes not so skilled at conveying what’s exciting about their work.”
Dr Wetherell also said that the lateral thinking often associated with artistic endeavour can be useful in helping scientists make the creative leaps to new avenues of enquiry.
Talks on astronomy, brain function, and undersea volcanoes were also well attended, as were activities like the public viewing nights at Mount Stromlo.
The Convenor of the ANU College of Science, Professor Denis Evans, said events such as Science Week have implications for the future of science in the Western world.
"It's vitally important that ANU engage with the wider community to convey all the passion and verve for science that exists on campus,” Professor Evans said.
“In recent times, more and more young people in the Western world have turned away from careers in science. By demonstrating that science is important and can be exciting, we’re helping to turn that trend around."
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