The lines between science and art are beautifully blurred in When Art Meets Science, a jaw-dropping exhibition on display in the Fountain Court during August 2023.
Since 1985, scientists at the Sydney-based Centenary Institute have brought renewed health and hope to Australians and people around the world by unlocking knowledge of complex diseases and developing life-saving treatments. To acknowledge the achievements of their dedicated researchers, the institute holds an annual Scientific Image Prize to showcase the outcomes and benefits of medical research in a way that’s sure to wow the wider community.
The spectacular images reveal, with kaleidoscopic beauty and intensity, life processes at the cellular level. Witness E. coli bacteria blooming into icy fractals, confetti-like brain cells radiating out in tiny ribbons, or neon-coloured 'crypts' within the gall bladder moving like the waxy interior of a lava lamp. Not only are these images of scientific importance, they’re also striking works of art in their own right.
How to see the exhibition
Visit the exhibition at NSW Parliament House on weekdays, 9am-5pm, until Thursday 31 August. The Parliament is currently undergoing restoration works, but remains open to the public. Access is to the left of the building, via the security gatehouse. Visitors can follow the signage into the building and take either the stairs or lift to the Fountain Court exhibition space.
Vote for your favourite image
Whether you've explored the exhibition in person or online below, the Centenary Institute invites you to vote for your favourite scientific image in the exhibition. The winner will be awarded the People's Choice Award in the Scientific Image Prize. Learn more and vote on the Centenary Institute's website here.
Virtual exhibition
Can't make it to Parliament House? Explore When Art Meets Science in the virtual space below:
