A mesmerizing performance of Bach’s Sonata in G Minor for flute and harpsichord by renowned organ and harpsichord artist and educator Shen Fanxiu, accompanied by flutist Liu Ye, took place at the National Center for the Performing Arts in Beijing on Friday. The captivating event, titled When Science Meets Art, aimed to ignite a passion for science among the public. Co-hosted by the NCPA, Beijing Association for Science and Technology, and Peking University Press, the performance was a highlight of the Science and Technology Week leading up to the eighth annual National Science and Technology Workers’ Day on May 30.

During the event, esteemed paleontologist Shu Degan shared insights into translating Darwin’s seminal work On the Origin of Species into Chinese. He emphasized the intrinsic connection between science and art, citing Darwin’s profound appreciation for music, particularly Mozart and Beethoven’s works, along with his love for literature by William Shakespeare and visual arts. Shu delighted the audience by reciting excerpts from On the Origin of Species in Chinese, underscoring the harmonious relationship between scientific inquiry and artistic expression.

Peking University Press unveiled its extensive collection of books at NCPA on Friday, comprising a vast assortment of translations of classic science literature. This enriched further enthusiasts’ interests in science and culture while providing scholars with a comprehensive resource to deepen their understanding of this ever-evolving field.