Re-evaluating Science and Technology trough the lens of Arts and Graphic Design. A case study in La Spezia.

Vienna

The Human society is getting more and more involved with scientific and environmental issues both in terms of
consciousness of good practices or participation in legislative decision-making processes. A common effort to
preserve our planet is asked every day, for example through recycling practices, reduction of pollutant emission,
use of alternative energies and awareness of risks natural and human-induced hazards.
In addition, public opinion is often involved for issues of scientific interest (e.g. genetically modified organisms
GMO). Unfortunately, the Eurobarometer (Eurobarometer Special 419 Report, Public perceptions of Science,
Research and Innovation, 2014) indicates, especially for the Italian population, a low interest in science and
therefore a lack of confidence in the potential of the research. It is hence important for people to be informed of
the progress made by science and the importance of the researchers’ role. Education, awareness and dissemination
of scientific results and issues must be made through simple and appealing channels that must reach all levels of
society and age groups: from children to older people. A common and comprehensible language for everyone can
be found in Graphic Arts.
For this reasons, the working group for science dissemination of La Spezia has increased, in recent years, close
relationship with some artists (especially graphic designers). The collaboration between two different worlds (art
and science) has allowed us to see an unusual approach and to translate concepts developed in images which
everyone can understand also under an emotional point of view. Different techniques and tools based on the target
to be reached have been employed.
1. Conferences. Gender differences issues in science professions and more generally in society has been
addressed through interactive conferences and round tables during the European Researchers’ Night 2015 and
other occasions for general public. Arguments and questions were described and imprinted in the minds of the
public thanks to the support of speed painting and visual scribing, which made it more understandable, interesting
and direct.
2. Edutainment activities. Two games have been build up for children aged between 7 and 13 years as a part of the
European Researchers’ Night activities (2011 and 2014-2015): a great board game with questions and drawings
related to marine ecology and environmental protection and a memory game through which children can learn
notions on Earthquakes, Volcanoes and Environment. Children’s learning is facilitated if bound by game, and in
this case images are more direct than words.
3. Surveys. A graphic questionnaire has been created in order to understand science perception and/or stereotypes
in children who do not yet know how to read and write.
In all these cases the relationship between researchers and artists has been extremely constructive and
fruitful: researchers had to simplify their object of study in order to be able to disclose concepts that have been
then translated into a simple and easy language.