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Limited edition-unlimited image : can a science/art fusion move the boundaries of visual and audio interpretation?

Chapter is derived from a research project started in 2004 in collaboration with Dr. Ian Toth and Dr Leighton Pritchard of the James Hutton Institute (Scottish Crop Research Institute). The research developed an application of visual cognition and visualization methods to the genome data visualization system (Genome Diagram) devised by Toth/Pritchard which was derived from a plant pathogen. Using both traditional printmaking techniques and digital imaging, animation and sound, Shemilt completed a number of investigations that resulted in new interpretations of the Genome Diagram and its embedded data which enabled Toth/Pritchard to gain new insights into the pathogen and its character. Shemilt’s visualisations were also developed into a number of artworks (prints, animations and installation), which were deployed to aid public engagement with the science, at exhibitions – both in the art and science domains. The chapter considers the impact of hybrid printmaking techniques (traditional and digital), and how this has enabled a reinvention of the artist’s language. It argues that traditional 19th and 20th Century photomechanical artist’s print processes can be used meaningfully and in accordance with high-powered computing and bio-informatics expertise currently being used by scientists. There is an illustrated example of computer outputs from the analysis of the genome sequence being translated into gallery art and a description of the discovery of a new pathogenicity determinant through the process of artistic re-interpretation and visual manipulation.

The research is extensively cited in “The hunt for Submarines in Classical Art; Mappings between scientific invention and artistic inspiration”. Eds Pringle, Christie, Shepherd. A commissioned report published by Arts and Humanities Data Service (AHDS Visual Arts) for the AHRC.

Original version: Shemilt, E. 2009 Digital visual culture : theory and practice. Bentkowska-Kafel, A., Cashen, T. & Gardiner, H. (eds.). Intellect Books, p. 23-32 10pp. (Computers and the history of art ).