record

Thesis Info

LABS ID
00447
Thesis Title
Reuniting Science and Art Through Museum Exhibitions
Author
Monika Lea Jones
2nd Author
3rd Author
Degree
Masters in Museum Studies
Year
2014
Number of Pages
269
University
San Francisco State University
Thesis Supervisor
Dr. Edward Luby
Supervisor e-mail
emluby AT sfsu.edu
Other Supervisor(s)
Mark Johnson
Language(s) of Thesis
English
Department / Discipline
Museum Studies
Languages Familiar to Author
English, Spanish, Hindi
URL where full thesis can be found
Keywords
Art, Science, Museum, Museums, Exhibit, Exhibition, Collaboration, Inclusive, Curation, Roles, Artist, Scientist, ArtScience, ArtScientist, BioArt, BioDesign, NewMedia, Informal Learning, Experiential Learning, Education, Hegel, Hegelian Dialectic, Living
Abstract: 200-500 words
Science and art, while traditionally divided into disciplines, are intrinsically related as modes of human inquiry and expression. However, since museum work is necessarily interdisciplinary in nature, it is surprising that many museums are not prepared to exhibit multidisciplinary work, such as BioArt, or provide collaborator roles across disciplines for artists and scientists. In this thesis, the process of developing museum exhibitions that integrate art and science is examined. A literature review along with case studies of three museums is conducted. It is concluded that while these practices challenge the traditional modes of curation and exhibition, museums and visitors can greatly benefit from opportunities for engagement that such work provides. Interdisciplinary collaborations are catalyzing bridges for innovative discoveries and the process itself must be preserved as a key tool for humanity. Museums as spaces of informal learning are ideal locations for this integrated information to be shared with public audiences.