Biology and creativity leap into focus at second annual BIO ART
George Mason University’s Department of Biology hosted its second annual BIO ART event in December, showcasing the intersection of scientific research and artistic expression. The event themed around herpetology—the study of amphibians—featured nine students presenting their bio-driven research alongside seven others who interpreted the theme through various art forms, including digital animation, origami, acrylic painting, and knitting.
“People often don’t think about the intersection of science and art, but for our students, it’s highly relevant,” said Geraldine Grant, chair of the Department of Biology. “This event offers them a chance to apply their studies in both analytical and creative ways.”
The department also offers a concentration in biological illustration, which blends core courses in biology, chemistry, and physics with specialized art classes. This program prepares students to merge their scientific knowledge with artistic skills, including drawing, animation, and design. It’s a perfect fit for those interested in creating educational content like textbooks, videos, and scientific illustrations, helping students navigate the dynamic space between biology and art.
The BIO ART event was inspired by a previous collaboration between the department and an art class held in the university’s greenhouse. Shakiba Salehian, senior lab and research specialist for the greenhouse, saw an opportunity to combine science and art in a way that would offer students a unique learning experience. This idea eventually led to the creation of the annual event.
Senior biology student Krishna Chaduruvelly, who participated in the art showcase, shared how his childhood love of nature books influenced his artistic journey. He often used illustrations in those books as inspiration for his watercolor paintings. While his current focus is on biological research, Krishna wanted to explore his creative side through digital animation. His project, The Big Leap, brought a frog to life in a visually captivating way.
Fellow senior Liz Replogle presented research she conducted with Professor Grant on idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), a severe lung disease that causes scarring and thickening of lung tissue. Their study investigates whether a better model system can be created to enable more effective therapeutic drug testing for this devastating disease. Liz, who plans to continue her education in the medical field, has an interesting background: she started her academic career with a degree in lighting and sound design. Despite her transition into biology, she finds that her first degree enhances her approach to research.
“What I learned as a lighting design student has enhanced my studies in biology and research, allowing me to work collaboratively, with a detail-oriented perspective to my work that is so necessary—without ever forgetting the human element” she said.
Erico Rosario won the art component of the event with their crochet piece, Live.
