As a molecular biologist, artist Peter Gray "worked on the mechanisms for expressing genes into functional proteins." In his upcoming exhibition, Informatika, Gray and fellow scientist/artist Andy Plioplys look to neurology, genetics, microbiology and physics for inspiration -- presenting unusual perspectives on scientific knowledge.
"Science and scientific observations have been expressed in my art from the early days in graduate school," says Gray. Two-dimensional works, Message Centers and Nodal Transport are "computer generated derivations from Mandelbrot fractal equations" and his "brain sculptures" are cast from a model before being enhanced with metals to depict concepts both humorous and serious.
For much of his career, neurologist and neuroscientist, Dr. Audrius Plioplys, has concentrated on finding causes and cures for cognitive disorders from autism to Alzheimer’s, most recently dedicating himself to caring for severely cerebral palsied children and young adults. It was during medical school at the University of Chicago that Dr. Plioplys became passionate about art, eventually combining art and science in large scale conceptual works that explore thought and consciousness.
Plioplys' Emergence series emerged literally from his brain’s own structural organization and electrical activity, incorporating the artist's MRI brain scan images and electroencephalogram tracings. Premiering at Lubeznik Center, his latest series, Chromodynamics, is a colorful exploration of how memories are formed.
Exploring the cutting edge of medical imaging, Informatika provides plenty of food for thought. Meet artists Peter Gray and Andy Plioplys at an opening reception at Lubeznik Center for the Arts on Saturday, January 14, from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. (Central). The Smithsonian Institution's Earth form Space will open on the same day, in the Center's Hyndman Gallery. Refreshments will be available and admission is free.
Photos: Peter Gray, Nodal Transport; Andy Plioplys, Subito Forzando