Theorizing the Intersection of Science and Art: A Case Study of an Online SciArt Exhibition in the Context of Science and Technology Studies (STS)

Abstract Since the mid-1990s, the internet has become a crucial platform for art exhibitions, enabling global accessibility and bridging digital and traditional art forms. SciArt exhibitions have emerged within this digital landscape, exploring the intersection of art, science, and technology. Originating from C.P. Snow’s discourse on the ‘two Cultures’, SciArt exhibitions have evolved into collaborative ventures that offer innovative perspectives and solutions beneficial to society. This article examines the transformative potential of online SciArt exhibitions to serve as a method within Science and Technology Studies (STS). Focusing on the Gut Instinct: Art, Design, and the Microbiome exhibition (ArtSci Initiative, 2015-2016), it demonstrates the collaborative efforts of artists, scientists, and curators, and also highlights the unique capacity of online SciArt exhibitions to reveal the processes involved in the social construction of scientific knowledge. This aligns with the capabilities provided by the internet, making online exhibitions particularly suited for showcasing these interactions and facilitating a broader, more dynamic engagement with the social aspects of scientific inquiry. Additionally, the article explores the pros and cons of online residencies and offers practical strategies for organizing online SciArt exhibitions with the aim of promoting the aspirations of STS.