ArtScience Museum Inspires Wonder In Their New Exhibition – All Possible Paths: Richard Feynman’s Curious Life
PUBLISHED October 23rd, 2018 07:00 am
Unravel the complex world of quantum computers and nanotechnology in the ArtScience Museum‘s new exhibit, All Possible Paths: Richard Feynman’s Curious Life. The fun and accessible works of the exhibition are sure to spark a sense of wonder and curiosity for all, regardless of how much prior knowledge you may or may not have about quantum physics and the likes.
The titular Richard Feynman is one of the most influential physicists of the 20th century. Known for his work in quantum mechanics – the basis of modern physics – his achievements laid the grounds for modern science and many technological advances such as lasers and global positioning systems (GPS), which are now indispensable in our everyday lives.
A showcase that truly encapsulates the melding of arts and science, the inspiring curation of biographical artefacts juxtaposed alongside artworks inspired by Feynman’s scientific discoveries is presented in collaboration with Singapore’s Nanyang Technology University and the Nobel Museum in Sweden, with support from the Centre for Quantum Technologies at National University of Singapore.
All Possible Paths takes visitors through an immersive journey of Feynman’s life and work across four thematic sections. The first is an introduction to Feynman himself, where you’ll encounter mellow drumbeats playing in the background – a nod towards Feynman’s own hobby of playing bongo drums. Also exhibited for the first time outside the United States are rare letters handwritten by Feynman, photographs, and original paintings. Accompanying these artefacts are easy-to-read, bold infographics, making learning about Feynman an accessible affair for all.
Known for being “The Great Explainer”, the second section of the exhibit spotlights Feynman’s flair for teaching, a humble tribute amidst his other accolades in life. Enjoy a cushy mini-cinematic experience, complete with bean bags and a projected video documentation of Feynman’s lecture.
The third thematic section, and perhaps the centrepiece of the entire exhibit, elucidates Feynman’s scientific concepts through art. Featuring mixed media works such as Malaysian artist, Jun Ong‘s Quantum; a dynamic set-up of lasers and mirrors that distorts dimension and spacial logic. As well as Thailand-based Japanese media artist, Eiji Sumi‘s Quark IV, which explores proton structures through an installation of particles mesmerizingly floating in a ray of light; as if it were liquid mercury encased within a glass. The artworks leave us deeper in awe of the vast beauty and complexity of Parton Theory, Quantum Electrodynamics, and the other intricacies of Feynman’s research.
As the exhibition underscores Feynman’s curious nature and creative thinking, audiences too are encouraged to pursue a spirit of enquiry. A blank chalkboard is placed at the end of the entire exhibit to prompt a reflective response from visitors. It’s an ellipsis that marks both the conclusion and the open possibility of discoveries still to be continued beyond the exhibition. Head on over to All Possible Paths and you’ll be surprised by the new discoveries you’ll take away.
All Possible Paths: Richard Feynman’s Curious Life is running from 20 October 2018 to 3 March 2019 at ArtScience Museum, 10am–7pm daily. Admission is priced at $12 for Singaporean Residents and $15 for foreign visitors.
Top image: Quantum by Jun Ong, courtesy of Marina Bay Sands
