The Experiment – Project Description

The Experiment is a project for the Donald P. Shiley Science and Technology Center at the University of San Diego created by artist db smith. The coming together of four scientific disciplines (Biology, Chemistry, Marine and Environmental Studies, and Physics) for the first time in one building, allows for new and innovative collaborations, which are reflected in the artwork through its interactive components. The artwork consists of light-emitting fiber optic cables that are suspended in the buildings third floor lobby, which are controlled via motion sensors and touch screen liquid crystal displays (one for each discipline). The content of these displays have been designed and programmed through collaboration between members of each respective discipline and the artist. Additionally, a time delayed video control system monitors interactions between viewers and the work, These interactions are recorded and randomly broadcast on two centrally located flat panel displays that act as points of reflection for viewers. The project may be characterized as an investigation into the relationship of science, technology and art, which fosters and promotes cross-disciplinary research and education through experimentation in non-traditional media and methodologies.