Week 9: Space + Art

            Astronomy is the study of space and the physical universe as a whole. It is also one of the oldest science subjects dating back to the Babylonians. With the advancements of technology we have been able to travel to the moon, create satellites and explore beyond the common telescope.

          
            Astronomy dates back to many centuries. Civilizations like Babylonia surrounded their culture based on myths and legends. It is fascination to know that these myths were passed on to the Greeks and the modern world we live in today (Jarus, 2013). I am amazed at the foundations of these mystical creatures and how curious mankind has become that we have created space exploration programs.

            The American space program has evolved to be one of the best in the world. From the first satellites to putting a man on the moon, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has been worldly recognized as leaders in space innovations (CBS News, 2013). I find it amazing how technologically advanced our space program has become. I admire the designs that go into making the space shuttles, each space shuttle is an artistic masterpiece. They are powerful machines that need to support space dust and need to be aerodynamic due to their travel at high speeds (Wall, 2011).

            Space travel has been the foundation of some entertaining science fiction television shows. From cartoons to realistic shows like Star Trek, traveling to space is portrayed as an exciting adventure. Movies like E.T. and Men in Black depict extraterrestrial activity in ways that ignite curiosity. One depicts a calm friendly creature, while the other makes us wonder if aliens really live among us.  Although, these shows often make space ships look very fancy, with amazing gadgets and shiny stuff. I believe television shows do not focus enough on the risks that our astronauts take.

            The astronauts that go on these missions have families and loved ones. Although astronauts are aware of the risks that are taken when traveling in space, it is very sad to hear about stories like the Challenger, and Columbia. The Challenger was a catastrophic explosion that revolutionized the NASA of today (Howell, 2012). I have faith that the United States Space program is slowly going to advance into a better and safer era. With the amazing advancement technology we have today, I would not be surprised to know that we will soon be taking tours of space. 

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Work Cited

“10 leading space programs around the world.” Canadian Press, AssociatePress. CBS News. 4 Nov. 2013. Web. 27 May. 2015.

Clayton, James. “How the movies are making space fun again.” Den Of Geek. DISQUS. 1 Aug. 2014. Web. 27 May. 2015.

Howell, Elizabeth. “Challenger: Shuttle Disaster That Changed NASA.” Space.Com. Purch. 16. Oct. 2012. Web. 27 May. 2015.

Jarus, Owen. “Ancient Babylon: Center of Mesopotamia Civilization.” Live Science. Purch. 12 Apr. 2013. Web. 27 May. 2015.

Wall, Mike. “How the Space Shuttle Was Born.” Space.Com. Purch. 28 June. 2011. Web. 27 May. 2015.

Event #2: San Diego Natural History Museum

For my second event, I attended the Natural History Museum at San Diego's Balboa Park. Several exhibits resembled the outdoor natural environment. There were many detailed artistic additions to each exhibit. For example, the "Natural Night Open Sky" exhibit, displayed local animals from the San Diego Mountains. These dedicated artists resembled each detail needed to feel the sensation of being in that outdoor night forest habitat. Some fun features included hidden animals that were either small or not easily recognizable. All of the exhibits were made to be understandable and entertaining for all ages.

Several of the nature exhibits displayed the ambiguous features of the wildlife. The climate, shades from the moonlight, and most importantly the nocturnal creatures, were all taken into account. The proper used and assembly of these features is what gave the feeling of being in that environment. Although the trees were not real the texture made it seem like a real forest.

When entering the forest exhibit, it gave the emotions of entering a real dark forest.  The first reaction was to begin and observe in details all of the surroundings. This is a common reaction to have if in fact trekking through a real natural dark forest. Besides the natural exhibits, there were also statues of animals, both extinct and present, that gave the resemblance of their actual size. 

In order to artistically resemble a picture into a three-dimensional animal, the size and features of the animal needs to be taken into account. A combination of mathematics and artistic knowledge is needed for this task. Throughout the museum there were many of these three-dimensional statues resembling creatures of different periods of time. The statues are an educational method to teach the size of these creatures in their natural state. For example, the above picture resembles a California Grizzly Bear mom and her cubs. Unfortunately, they might not be as cute in the wild, but seeing these statues is a good way to learn.

In class we have learned about robotics and the way they have influenced the way we learn and live our lives. Well, in other museums these three-dimensional creatures are often moving due to a mechanical robot under the skin. These robots are purposed to show how they would move in the wild. This is often a much better way to resemble their natural state, especially if there is a prey involved. Does not matter what method is used to teach, each museum provides great knowledge.

The San Diego Natural History Museum has many exhibits that provide environmental knowledge and an interior theater for movies. I encourage everyone to visit, especially my classmates. The movies found in the theater are nature films and family oriented. After speaking with the museum staff I also found out that they do many research projects around the world. My summary of the visit only covered some of the exhibits provided by the San Diego Natural History Museum. 

Week 8: Nanotechnology + Art

I would have never thought of combining nanotechnology and art, but it is quite fascinating. In class we have discussed the evolution of technology and our dependency on it. Nanotechnology is an example of those technological advancements we might soon depend on. Nanotechnology uses matter measured in size from 1 to 100 nanometers, to alternate fabrication of extremely small products. Today nanotechnology has many uses and is commonly found in cars, electronics, products and other items. Some examples pieces of nano-art include the vases shown above and something I researched on, car paint. Besides art, nanoparticles are also found in many self-cleaning and consumer products. With the efficiency of technology, nanotechnology is revolutionizing the world we live in today.

In the video lecture, professor James Gimzewski mentions how Romans used nanotechnology in their art.  A particular vase, shown above, changes appearance according to where the light is shined. After doing some research online I found a similar token of appreciation, an electromagnetic paint used on cars called paramagnetic paint. An electric current travels through the car’s surface with applied electro-nano magnetic particles that change the car's color (Hill, 2007). The link below shows a video of this phenomena.

Paramagnetic Paint

Cleaning products with integrated nanotechnology are pioneers of a new cleaning generation. These cleaning companies are finding different methods to make the world a cleaner place (Walford, 2014). They are making clear nanotechnology film for cars, windows, and other hard surfaces. The picture on the left shows one side with and without the film. If the film is not an option, there are a variety of soaps that use nanoparticles. I find this method of cleaning fascinating, especially the nano-film. However, scientists are attempting to reduce the use of silver nanoparticles. They believe silver particles might actually be taking over the natural nanoparticle bacteria’s niche in the ecosystem (Cordis, 2013). If we can find a way to have self-cleaning products everywhere, and not harm the environment, we could help reduce water usage.

There are over 1000 products on the market that use nanotechnology. It is unfortunate to hear how nanotechnology is used in food products to make them last longer and taste natural. I am strongly against this, especially because it is taking away from the natural taste and increasing the amount of chemicals in our system. Diet supplements often have silicon nanoparticles that trick the body into feeling it is full (Cordis, 2013). According to scientist when the particles are released they also harm the environment (Layland, 2014). I consider this a negative use of nanotechnology, consumers are not aware of the chemicals going into their system.

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Work Cited

Cordis. “Investigating the environment impact of nanosilver.” Phys.org. Innovation Seeds. 22 Apr. 2013. Web. 21 May. 2015.

Davis, Amanda. “Everyday Nanotechnology.” The Institute. IEEE. 6 Dec. 2013. Web. 22 May. 2015.

Hill, Brandon. “Nissan Develops Color Changing Paint for Vehicles.” DailyTech LLC. 9 Nov. 2007. Web. 22 May. 2015.

Layland, Edie. “Nanoparticles from dietary supplement drinks are likely to reach environment, say scientists.” 18 Jun. 2014. Web. 21 May. 2015.

Walford, Lynn. “Drop the chamois cloth – nanotechnology could mean self-cleaning cars.” Car Tech. Tech Hive. 16 May. 2014. Web. 22 May. 2015.

Week 7: Neuroscience + Art

                        Consciously we are always thinking about something. What we are doing right now, tomorrow, or in the past. There is always a thought in our mind. Durkheim states that the mind and the body are two separate individuals. There are neurons in our brain that help the brain function, but our body behaves according to physical sensations. Artists have their own distinctive way to depict the human body under the influence. Nonetheless, neuroscience and the human brain are two artistic canvases.

Durkheim believed that the mind and body were two different individuals. The brain depends on the mind but the mind can exists on its own if the body dies (Kim, 2011). The brain and body are connected, but the mind can exist alone. With this being said, the body can have experiences that reflect the brain’s mental state. This can cause the body to behave in a particular way according to the physical sensations it experiences (Heil, 1998). This could be why people often blame their negative behavior on being under the influence.

            Neurochemicals are substances that react with the brain and often cause hallucinations or unwanted body behaviors. When they were legal, cocaine and LSD were very addicting drugs. These drugs change the body fluids that alternate the way the brain functions (Brogaard, 2015). Some artists have drawn what they depict is the mental state of people’s brain when they are under the influence. I think these drawings are resourceful because they can help people understand the emotional mental state of being under the influence.

Santiago Ramon y Cajal, is known as the pioneer of Neurosciences (Vesna, 2015). His artistic ability led him to become famously referenced by the hundreds of drawings illustrating the structure of brain cells (Nobel Media, 2014). His drawings depict the brain cells like a web of spiders. Till this day his artwork is used for neuroscience educational purposes. Some artists have their own method explaining the neurological body’s mental state when under the influence of illegal drugs.

When depicting the feelings of being under the influence of a drug, many artists enjoy drawing in bright colors. These vibrant colors often resemble positive energy and heightened emotions (Getty Museum, 2015). Such emotions and energy levels are associated with being under the influence. The way that the artists express being under the influence on drawings helps to understand the feelings via mental emotions. Curved lines, give the impression of dizziness and at the same time the bright colors give a sense of happiness. I find this distinct form of art to be a very talented method of expressing emotions. 

Neuroscience is a subject I would like to learn more about. I am interested in learning more about the way that the neurons work. The way artists have the ability to integrate mental emotions with the physical sensation is impressive. 

           

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Work Cited

Brogaard, Berit. “Love is like cocaine: The remarkable, terrifying neuroscience of romance.” Salon. 14 Feb. 2015. Web. 15 May. 2015.

Getty Museum. “Understanding Formal Analysis.” J.Paul Getty Trust. Getty Museum. 2015. Web. 15 May. 2015. <http://www.getty.edu/education/teachers/building_lessons/formal_analysis.html>

Heil, John. “Philosophy of Mind.” Taylor & Francis Group. London and New York. (1998): 87-105. Print. 12 May. 2015

Kim, Jaegwon. “Mind as Immaterial Substance – Descartes Dualism.” Philosophy of Mind. 3^rd ed. Boulder: Westview, 2011 31-60. Print.

"Santiago Ramón y Cajal - Biographical". Nobelprize.org. Nobel Media AB 2014. Web. 11 May. 2015. 

Vesna, Victoria. “Neuroscience-pt1.” DESMA 9. University of California. , Los Angeles. 9 Apr. 2012. Lecture. 11 May. 2015.

Week 6: BioTech + Art

Bioart uses biotechnology to alter biological matter into a living art product. Biotechnology can be used to test new cosmetic and medical products on living organisms, often mice. This is the reason why conservation groups advocate against these procedures and want restrictions on artists and scientists to prevent overuse of biotechnology. 

Bioartists manipulate genes and cells to change the organism’s appearance. They claim to not harm or kill the animal via the process by making living art (Miranda, 2013). I personally think that bioartists should not mess with the appearance of an organism. There are bioartitst that make their organisms look futuristic (Miah, 2012). Aside from physically affecting the appearance of organisms, they are also used to test cosmetic products affecting the human appearance.

The word ‘cosmetics’ is often a synonym for make up, when really according to the Federal and Drug Administration, cosmetics are ‘articles’ applied to the human body (Humane Society, 2014). Biotechnology is the use of living organisms to develop or products. Which is why before a new cosmetic or medicinal drug goes into the market, often it gets tested on small rodents like mice. Why mice? Because a mouse’s genetic pool is very similar to that of humans (Winstead, 2002).  Over 700 mouse genes have counterparts with human genes. These testing have triggered many conservationist groups to advocate against what they call animal cruelty.

Although there are people who find product testing positive, the organisms that are tested on are left to die; they can no longer function properly. This is why some major brands like Bath and Body Works have decided to not do animal testing (The Baltimore Sun, 2010). These companies in a way help with the conservation of these organisms and prevent from altering the genetic pool. On the other hand, countries like China make it mandatory for all foreign cosmetic products to be tested on animals (Humane Society, 2014).

Bioartists have a passion for making art out of living organisms, and there is a border to how far biotechnology can go. I stand in the middle of this situation; I am neither for nor against these procedures. I can say that I would not want animals to be abused and there should be restrictions, but yet again I would not like to put on a lotion that would harm my body.

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Work Cited

Baltimore Sun, “Alternatives to animal testing gaining ground.” Baltimore Sun. McClatchy-Tribune Information Services. 27 Aug. 2010. Web. 7 May. 2015.

Humane Society. “Fact Sheet: Cosmetic Testing.” The Human Society of the United States. 13 Mar. 2014. Web. 8 May. 2015.

Miah, Andy. “Bioart is Changing the World.” HuffPost Arts and Culture. Huffington Post. 7 Feb. 2012. Web. 8 May. 2015.

Miranda, Carolina A. “Weird Science: Biotechnology as Art Form.” ArtNews. Disqus. 18 Mar. 2013. Web. 7 May. 2015.

Winstead, Edward R. “Humans and Mice Together at Last: Scientists compare mouse chromosomes 16 to the human genome.” Genome News Network. J.Craig Venter Institute. 13 May. 2002. Web. 7 May. 2015.

Event #1: San Diego Model Railroad Museum

For my first event, I attended the Model Railroad Museum located in San Diego’s Balboa Park. I was amazed at the amount of detail and effort put into the exhibits that depicted miniature railroad cities from the mid to late 1900’s. Some, not all, had well known railroad landmarks or routes, for example, the Bakersfield to Mojave Dessert route with the iconic Tehachapi Loop. The artistic detail integrated into the small people, cities, and railroads made this museum an artistic mystery.

Every exhibit has features that are mathematically calculated into the appropriate scale. The size proportion is accurate when comparing the people, trains, and buildings. Trains cross at the right time, and the little people resemble real world actions, such as attending a diner. However, math and art together is probably not the first thing you would think about while visiting, but both are very important towards the proper function of the exhibit.

When you have several trains moving at the same time, the museum operator needs to be aware of the electricity pattern and make sure the trains do not crash at an intersection. With so much going on, a small electric or timing mistake could cause everything to shut down. Important details like mathematically calculating the speed, and train length are all crucial numbers that play an important role.

With so much going on in some of the exhibits, visitors take time to examine each one. This is how the museum educates by attracting all ages to the exhibits. The detail engages visitors and teaches the importance of railroads during the 1900’s. Like we have learned in class, Robinson claims that we all do not learn or work the same. Some people need to see it to understand it and, since they cannot travel back in time, what better way than seeing a miniature version. This is how I captivated my idea for my midterm project.

For my midterm project I wanted to design a tool that people could use when attending an art museum. They would have the ability to engage in whatever event, place, or action, taking place in the painting they were viewing. Not everyone is an art enthusiast, and might not understand paintings that well, therefore, like this museum does, it would be nice to see how life was like at a different time.

I would definitely recommend my classmates to attend this entertaining museum. If you are a San Diego native, you will get a kick out of the small-scale monuments. This museum is great for all ages and gives in depth historical background. The San Diego Model Railroad Museum is an artistic mystery.