POINT SOURCE SUPPORTS CITY ART PROJECT

Author:	David Pointer
Email:	info@point-source.com
Date:	05/06/2007

Art project displays laser microscopy images on public buildings

 

Thanks to Point Source, and the exciting work of artist Seran Kubisa, dramatic artworks based on images from a confocal laser microscope are to be projected on to public buildings in Portsmouth, as part of an innovative public science-art project in the city. 

Under the patronage of Point Source, and in partnership with Portsmouth City Council and Art Plus*, artist Seran Kubisa is creating a dazzling collection of 100 works of art for the project, which has been named: “Treasure Island: A Forensic Investigation of a City”. 

Each artwork is based on an image created by analysing a sample under the confocal laser microscope.  Seran selects parts of the image that interest her then adjusts the microscope to capture the natural fluorescence, and creates avisually coherent series of vibrantly colourful pictures.

“The use of technology applied to the domestic sphere is what interests me - it allows the viewer access to a normally invisible world,” explains Seran who is making a name for herself in this innovative branch of science-art, with this, her third microscopy project. “It requires long hours in the laboratory as well as the studio.  Point Source’s sponsorship pays for the laboratory time: it makes the whole project possible.”

Point Source makes high-precision, high-reliability fibre laser systems for use in bio-medical and other instrumentation, including confocal microscopes.  Managing Director David Pointer explains his interest.  “This is a fascinating project that promotes science and art at the same time, in a way that is accessible and inspiring for local people and visitors.  We are excited about playing a part in promoting the powerful fascination of laser microscopy to the wider public.”

Samples for the ‘Treasure Island’ images will be provided by community groups and other organisations in Portsmouth over the first 12-month phase of the project which starts in earnest in May 07. A pilot phase has already been completed using samples as varied as a piano, a Bible, a feather, and a concert programme.  All the images are displayed on the project web site www.cityforensics.com.

As the project progresses, selected artworks will be displayed at strategic sites in Portsmouth, by projecting them on to buildings and in a public light sculpture . 

-Ends-

 

*The Art Plus Award Scheme for art in public places is a joint initiative by Arts Council England, South East, and the South East England Development Agency (SEEDA) to commission and deliver public art of the highest quality, celebrating the place of art and artists in improving the environment.  “Treasure Island: A Forensic Investigation of a City” is an Art Plus 07 Final Award winner and was awarded this year’s Art Plus Innovation Award.