Entangling art with STEM: Using geometry in visual art practice to unearth STEM insights as a way of contributing to interdisciplinary knowledge is an exploration of learning through doing in the arts.
As a PhD examination exhibition, the artworks here capture the presence of STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) disciplinary ways of knowing and doing in visual art practice, surfaced through the application of geometry and geometric form.
During the research process, Suzanne explored the shared history of science and art, the contribution of geometry to the development of western linear perspective and how STEM knowledge is foundational in paint and ceramics process and practice.
Suzanne came to the realisation that it is useful to consider the embodied ways of knowing that takes place in art practice and the utility of this consideration for surfacing tacit knowledge of experienced teachers.
This floor talk will focus on distilling the contribution of geometry to the artworks, and the possibilities these contributions present for articulating STEM ways of knowing.
Artist Bio
Suzanne Crowley has had two careers, one as a practicing artist, and one as a project officer/manager and educational researcher. Prior to being awarded a scholarship to undertake this PhD study, Suzanne worked on two STEM projects in the UTAS Faculty of Education.
Combined, these two pathways have provided her with extensive practical, hands-on, learning through doing experience, as well as the skills of organising, planning and implementing projects and events.
The topic of her PhD arose from her working on these STEM projects, and a curiosity to investigate and unearth how and where STEM ways of knowing and doing permeate her art practice.
Suzanne is curious to explore further how learning in and through the arts might contribute to improving student and teacher engagement in and uptake of STEM pursuits.
Suzanne has trained and worked in the performing arts and the visual arts, including ceramics, painting, photography, lino printing and leadlight. In this PhD examination exhibition at QVMAG, Suzanne uses her visual art practice to reflect on how art practice facilitates discovery through becoming comfortable with not knowing.
The exhibition at the centre of this artist talk is presented as part of the University of Tasmania PhD Higher Degrees by Research (HDR) academic program, with a particular focus on students in the College of Arts, Law and Education. The HDR exhibition program is supported by the University of Tasmania and the Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery.