Creativity in Science and Art

Abstract

This article compares creative work in science and the arts based on the author’s own experience. In the field of science, the author works in the field of computer vision and is most interested in modelling 3D shapes from depth images. He started to collaborate with new-media artists almost three decades ago to produce interactive art installations that used also computer vision technology. Gradually, he developed also his own art installations. Ten years ago, he took up sculpting in wood and stone using the direct carving method. He has sought to enrich his sculptures in a virtual dimension by means of video projection. The scientist/artist describes how his experience in computer vision modelling 3D shapes has influenced his sculptures and compares how creativity is expressed in both fields. Although there is usually a wide gap between science and art, creative activity in both fields has surprisingly many common features.