Revealing Science - WI
Created in 2020, this project uses the polarization of light to create stunning portraits of three scientists: Pupa Gilbert, Elizabeth Wright, and Filiz Yesilkoy. All three are professors at the University of Wisconsin - Madison who use light and polarization in their research. The medium of these portraits - polarizers and cellophane - only reveals the vibrant colors when viewed through a polarizer film. These were first virtually exhibited at the 2020 Wisconsin Science Festival on video, which you can view here.
This project was supported by the Madison Arts Commission, with additional funding from the Wisconsin Arts Board, and special thanks to Arts + Literature Laboratory.
Pupa Gilbert
Dr. Gilbert studies the structure of biominerals, such as those found in coral skeletons, sea urchin spines, and animal tooth enamel. Her research uses highly energized light to look at the structure of these biominerals by using the light's polarization
Polarizer film and cellophane. 2020
Click below to go to audio interview with Dr. Gilbert
Elizabeth Wright
Dr. Wright uses Electron Beam Microscopy, which uses accelerated electrons to image the complex structure of cellular and viral pathogens in order to learn more information that may be used to develop new antimicrobials, therapeutics, and vaccines.
Polarizer film and cellophane. 2020
Click below to go to audio interview with Dr. Gilbert
Filiz Yesilkoy
Dr. Yesilkoy uses nanotechnology and photonics in efforts to develop new techniques for next-generation healthcare practices, such as identifying ailments or illnesses on a molecular scale from a blood sample.
Polarizer film and cellophane. 2020
Click below to go to audio interview with Dr. Yesilkoy