DisruptEncodeConsolidate

Collaborative Art & Bio-science Workshop at Lancaster University, UK on Monday 17th to Wednesday 19th December 2018

This collaborative workshop brought together scientists from the SynaNET network and professional artists from across Europe and the UK to explore key ideas in neuroscience research, BioArt and diverse artistic practices influenced by the life sciences and different ways of working. The workshop aimed to DISRUPT dogmatic thinking across these disciplines, ENCODE new approaches and insights through shared interactions and CONSOLIDATE these ideas through artistic expression.

The workshop aimed to disrupt assumed narratives of artist as ‘receptors’ and scientists as ’transmitters’ of knowledge in the context of Science and Art collaboration.

Invited artists gave playful presentations and insights into their practice, ways of working and the conceptual basis of their work. Scientific demonstrations by researchers at Lancaster University Division of BioMedical Life Sciences (BLS) devised hands on activity for both scientists and artists to provide insight into the theory and practical basis of various approaches in neuroscience research. THese included functional brain imaging, behavioural analysis in model organisms, characterisations of the gut-micro-biome-brain interface and other techniques. Through working together, scientists and artists explored the development of novel approaches across their practices.

A unique temporary haven to share approaches, develop & build relationships across the life sciences, arts and humanities. Participants take part in hands on activity exploring both neuroscience and art methodology.

This workshop is funded by the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme as part of SynaNET under grant agreement number 692340