Bringing together art and science

Animation of bacillus cereus bacteria.
Created by AXS for ReGenesis: China

I enjoy working at the interface of art and science. For me, the two are not mutually exclusive disciplines but rather complementary ways of exploring and understanding our world. My partners (Sonya Amin and Eddy Xuan) and I run a business in MaRS called AXS Biomedical Animation Studio.

We came together with mixed backgrounds in genetic research, engineering, and visual arts, and share a passion for science and making pictures. In our studio we develop visual explorations — animations and illustrations — of complex phenomena in biological science and medicine. Much of our subject matter exists at micro- and nano-scales, in the realm of tissues, cells, viruses, and molecules, and often beyond the limits of current imaging technologies. Our images are therefore often interpreted from scientific data (some of it visual) and hypotheses, and the expert accounts of scientists themselves. We bring these images to life in animations using visual effects technology and storytelling techniques developed for Hollywood films.

The topics we address through this interface of science and art are by no means limited in scope to those working in scientific fields. The dramatic TV series ReGenesis brings to a mass audience issues that are at the frontiers of biotechnology — issues that, while often rooted in nano- and micro-scopic events, can have a profound impact on society at large. As members of the show’s visual effects team, we’ve had the privilege and challenge of bringing these events — many of which have never before been visualized — to life. Our innovative solutions to these visual problems recently earned us a Gemini Award nomination in the category of Best Visual Effects. In total, ReGenesis garnered 10 Gemini nominations. I believe that this is not only a testament to the artistic quality of the show, but also reflects its general importance in addressing vital issues in biological science through art (yes, I consider good TV to be art).

The Gemini Award for Visual Effects will be presented during the Drama, Variety, and Comedy Gala tomorrow night, Wednesday, October 18th.

Here’s my plug for the show: Regenesis Season II airs Friday nights at 9 on Global. AXS Studio is currently working with the show’s producers on Season III.

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