Unit 8: NanoTech + Art

The Lycurgus Cup with two different
colors: green in the daylight (left)
and red when illuminated from
within (right).
Source: http://www.amusingplanet.com/

In middle school, I did a research project on nanotechnology and learned about the developing processes in the application of this interesting technology operating under a scale of within 1-100 nanometers. However, since then, progression in this field has increased exponentially, as proven with Kurzweil’s technological exponentially growing trend (Kurzweil). Even in 400 B.C.E., nanotechnology was present in art-forms, as seen by the Lycurgus Cup (uconlineprogram). Interestingly, this piece of Roman pottery is green in daylight, yet red when light is inside the cup, due to the use of nano-size gold particles (uconlineprogram). Then, with the invention of the Scanning Tunneling Microscope in 1981, scientists can now visibly see atoms as well as purposefully move around atoms and molecules, recording their effects (Gimzewski). This invention allows scientists to further advance their research of nanotechnology

An example of socks with silver
nanoparticles to eliminate foot odor.
Source: https://www.nanosilver.eu/

and seek how to apply it to our daily lives. Today, nanoparticles are everywhere - whether it be in socks, fridges, or tennis balls (uconlineprogram). The thought of this technology being a prominent part of our lives surprises me because we can use hundreds of nanotechnological products in a week yet not be aware of the impressive technological feat we are taking advantage of. All of these nanotechnological advancements from 400B.C.E. to present-day are clear indications that our understanding and application of this subject are growing to this day.

The incorporation of nanotechnology into the arts is growing as well. Nano-Scape is an example of nanotechnology and art combining into one form, as this piece uses a wireless magnetic force-feedback interface in the form of a ring to allow users to modify the properties of nano-particles underneath their hands (Art Base). With this metal ring, users can feel strong magnetic forces or slight shocks from the nanoparticles, allowing users to interact with these intricate particles (“Art”).  Nanoscience is also used in art conservation because nanoparticles do not alter the original properties of artifacts during the elimination of their nano-sized deformations, displaying the dependent relationship art and nanoscience have for each other (“Nanomaterials”). The application of nanotechnology is vast as it can be implemented towards anything with the ability to alter properties on a nano-scale. Art, medicine, clothing, house supplies - all of these are currently incorporating nanotechnology as an integral part of their functions. I believe that in the future, nanotechnology can be used to increase the variety of products, art, and medicine.

Users wearing the metal rings in the Nano-Scape exhibit.
Source: https://art.base.co/

References

1. Kurzweil, Ray. "A university for the coming singularity." TED. Feb. 2009. Web. 26 May 2017. <https://www.ted.com/talks/dennis_hong_my_seven_species_of_robot>.
2. uconlineprogram. “Nanotech Jim pt3” Online video clip. YouTube. YouTube, 21 May 2012. Web. 26 May 2017.
3. Gimzewski, Jim, and Victoria Vesna. "The Nanomeme Syndrome: Blurring of Fact & Fiction in the Construction of a New Science." The Nanomeme Syndrome: Blurring of Fact & Fiction in the Construction of a New Science. N.p., n.d. Web. 26 May 2017. <http://vv.arts.ucla.edu/publications/publications/02-03/JV_nano/JV_nano_artF5VG.htm>.
4. "Art in the Age of Nanotechnology." Art.Base. The Art Base, n.d. Web. 26 May 2017. <https://art.base.co/event/2104-art-in-the-age-of-nanotechnology>.
5. "Nanomaterials in Art Conservation." Nature Nanotechnology. Springer Nature, 2015. Web. 26 May 2017. <http://www.nature.com/nnano/journal/v10/n4/full/nnano.2015.38.html>.