Tuesday, February 11, 2014

Words are not enough?

Interesting insight on the pairing of art and science!
When people hear the words "science communication", many still think of jargon-filled, unintelligible papers in dusty, peer-reviewed journals that no one except the boffins in white coats ever read. Although news clips on the evening news about a key drug discovery, science blogging, museum signage or even TED talks are all good examples of science communication, for most people it’s all about the the written word. But what about sand art? Or opera? Or dance? Sometimes words are not enough. -- read all on Talk science to Me
Shelly Xie, a medical researcher, is a scientist communicating through art. She uses sand art to tell audiences about schistosomiasis and its impact on daily life in Ghana.



Using a non-traditional medium like art communicates science in a more engaging way for general audiences. And even if you’re using more traditional formats, presenting complex theories and concepts without jargon and unencumbered by the dry, passive voice–laden text of formal science communication, art overcomes the language barrier and stirs an immediate emotional response. Or, more simply put, it engages the reader.

No comments: