Beyond galleries

This refers to the letter ‘Oxygen for art’ (January 31, 2025) by Ukasha Sherazi. The letter effectively underscores the significance of artists in society and the need for greater institutional support. Advocating for more art galleries is a crucial step. However, broadening artistic engagement – by embedding art within educational institutions, workplaces, and research centres – can create a more profound impact. Art should not be confined to exhibitions but should be woven into daily life, inspiring innovation across disciplines. During my time as a science student in Sweden, I observed a remarkable emphasis on art in scientific environments. Laboratories displayed scientific illustrations, digital art inspired by microscopy images, and sculptures representing complex physical phenomena.

Students were encouraged to visualise their research through sketches, color-coded data trends, and aesthetically designed models, reinforcing both artistic and scientific precision. A particularly striking example was how art-based approaches enhanced problem-solving in fields like physics and engineering. Students designed prototypes that were not just functional but visually engaging, fostering a culture of creativity. Art is not merely an ornament to science but a fundamental tool for enhancing creativity and comprehension. By adopting such an approach, we can empower artists while cultivating a more imaginative generation of scientists.

Dr Intikhab Ulfat

Karachi