The museum's central theme is human perception. Perception is not just the basis for science, but also the basis for sculpture, painting, poetry and literature. Though the Exploratorium is best known as a science museum, the museum has used the perceptions of both artists and scientists to establish notions of how we see, know and understand the world around us. Artists' works illustrate the reoccurrence of natural processes in a multiplicity of contexts, and they thus convey a sense of the unity between nature and culture which encompasses both art and science.
The works of artists who communicate the possibilities of human experience are an integral part of the ExploratoriumUs exhibitry. In the words of Dr. Oppenheimer:
"Art is included, not just to make things pretty, although it often does so, but primarily because artists make different kinds of discoveries about nature than do physicists or biologists. They also rely on a different basis for decision-making while creating their exhibits. But both artists and scientists help us notice and appreciate things in nature that we had learned to ignore or had never been taught to see. Both art and science are needed to fully understand nature and its effects on people. The art in the Exploratorium is therefore blended with the science as a part of the overall pedagogy."
The Exploratorium has involved artists in all aspects of museum programming. Public programs held at the museum have explored the common bonds between art and science. Through the museum's School-in- the-Exploratorium program, artists work with teachers to teach about light, vision, and color to elementary and secondary students. On the museum floor, art and art works are interspersed with other didactic exhibits. These art works make subtle connections between the nature of art and science. Families, children, seniors, the handicapped, and countless other groups have the opportunity to develop an appreciation for art in a playful, unusual, and less intimidating context.
The Artist-in-Residence Program is coordinated by artist Peter Richards, under the guidance of an advisory panel. The Exploratorium receives inquiries about the program from all over the country and from other countries as well. As most of these inquiries come from the major U.S. art centers, Peter Richards initiates contacts with artists outside these localities whenever possible. The Exploratorium seeks out artists who like to experiment and who are interested in the kinds of natural phenomena that make up the thematic content of the museum.
A residency at the Exploratorium is an opportunity for an artist to learn new skills in a high quality electronics and machine shop, and to develop new ideas and insights through collaboration with a staff that is sympathetic to aesthetic and technical problem solving.
Artists who share common interests with the Exploratorium are encouraged to submit an informal proposal. The proposal should include a project description, a preliminary budget, a personal history, and, when appropriate, a working prototype. A group of interested staff people then review the proposal with the artist. If the proposed project seems compatible with the museum's current interests, the proposal is referred to the Advisory Panel.
The Advisory Panel reviews proposals, disseminates information about the program, refers artists to the Exploratorium and provides invaluable artistic direction. This panel is made up of prominent people from the Bay Area arts community.
Once the artist is selected, the budget is reviewed to ensure that adequate funding has been allocated for the artist's stipend, materials and technical assistance from Exploratorium staff members. The project is divided into three phases: an experimental phase, resulting in a working prototype; a construction phase; and a shake-down phase. The artist works with and consults staff members during all phases and has access to all museum facilities and technical and scientific staff.
Time schedules for projects are determined by the scope of the project. There are no deadlines for proposals, although scheduling for the year usually occurs in December and January. Interested Artists who would like a complete information packet should send a letter of inquiry to Melissa Alexander and include a self-addressed, stamped 10x13 envelope with $1.50 postage on it to cover mailing costs. You can also email to art@exploratorium.edu for information.
__________________________________________________________________
Exploratorium 3601 Lyon Street San Francisco, CA 94123