BIOL1921: How Artists look at Biology

This seminar will explore the many and diverse interactions between art and biology. The topics covered range from the portrayal of biology in classic art, to the use of artistic venues for studying and remediating environmental problems, to the utility of photography, painting, sculpture, and other art forms to explore levels of biology ranging from molecular and cellular structures to landscapes. The course includes hands-on creation of artistic biological objects. Topics will be explored using recorded media and presentations by students, the instructor, and invited speakers to cover novel topics at the art/biology interface. This course is taught by Robert Roon from the department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biophysics. Robert Roon is a veteran of more than 45 years of university teaching in the area of biochemistry. His eclectic interests range from neuroscience to Northwest Coast Native American Art. One guiding principle of his life has been the firm conviction that ?man shall not live by bread alone.? That phrase from Matthew 4:4 has a non-literal meaning that transcends any specific religion. It suggests that in order to live a healthy and productive life, it is essential to have some creative outlet that connects us to our biological heritage. This runs contrary to the current tendency to interact with others and with the larger world via electronic venues.

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