Science and art combined - it's a controversy that's gained more and more attention in recent years.
It's also an issue students and the community can explore at ArtWHAT?, a yearly showcase of art and technology Friday.
"Sometimes the most profound works in any field are when seemingly unrelated fields are combined," said Collin Ruffenach, a systems engineering sophomore. "Combining science with the arts opens new avenues for artists to explore and viewers to appreciate. An event like this is hard to find, and anyone interested should go."
Organized by the ArtVERGE program, ArtWHAT? runs 5:15-9 p.m. at the Digital Arts Ranch, which is on campus near University Drive and Myrtle Avenue. It will include a fashion show, music, dance performances, art exhibits, a panel discussion and free food.
One of the entertainment highlights will be a performance by the Arts, Media and Engineering Ensemble using technologically enhanced instruments, said artVERGE President Stjepan Rajko.
A glove-like instrument, for example, will capture the movement of a hand and translate that movement into sound.
Also, the ensemble's percussion set is modulated through a computer, so the audience may hear a bird chirping instead of the clash of a cymbal.
Not all the showcased art, however, will include technological influences, said Rajko. There will also be paintings, photographs and sculptures that were not created for the purpose of science.
"The meaning of the event is in the diversity and openness that we are bringing together," he said. "I think the eclecticness of things brought together here will be interesting. If people haven't been exposed to art, coming here will give them a sampling of a little bit of everything,"
As for the question of whether science and art should be mixed, Rajko said it really depends on the circumstances.
"At this event there are no boundaries," he said. "I think science is a choice that can influence art. Sometimes it's a good choice, and sometimes it's a bad choice. But no matter what, it's an important choice."
Rajko also said he hopes the event will promote collaboration between departments and students involved in the arts.
"We'll show work of different kinds, interact and hopefully discussion will stay in motion afterward," he said.
Collaboration is something that was particularly valued by Ben Maggos, an arts, media and engineering student who died unexpectedly in January.
Because of Maggos' leadership and impact in the field, this year's ArtWHAT? showcase will be held in his memory.
"He was very open to connecting with different people on campus and bringing groups together, bridging gaps and trying to facilitate collaboration.
"When he passed away and we had a gathering, it was really interesting to see all the different places people came from. He knew all these different people, but we did not know each other. The way he brought people together is something we're trying to recreate," said Rajko.
Reach the reporter at ann.censky@asu.edu.
