Peking University Press, in collaboration with the National Center for the Performing Arts and the Beijing Association for Science and Technology, hosted a captivating event titled “When Science Meets Art” on Friday at the prestigious National Center for the Performing Arts in Beijing. The event, which was a highlight of the Science and Technology Week leading up to the eighth annual National Science and Technology Workers’ Day on May 30, featured a mesmerizing performance of Bach’s Sonata in G Minor for flute and harpsichord by renowned organ and harpsichord artist and educator Shen Fanxiu, alongside flutist Liu Ye.
The esteemed pianist and music educator shared his insights into the artistry of music, emphasizing its connection to science. He highlighted how music is not just an art form but also an expression of scientific concepts such as rhythm, harmony, and melody. Shen also shared his passion for science, particularly physics, which he believes is closely linked to music. He explained how scientists use sound waves to study different aspects of the universe, such as black holes and quasars.
During the event, esteemed paleontologist and Chinese Academy of Sciences academician Shu Degan also shared her insights into science’s connection with art. She emphasized that science is not just about facts but also about creativity and imagination. Shu recited excerpts from Darwin’s seminal work On the Origin of Species in Chinese while highlighting how literature has played an essential role in shaping our understanding of science over time.
In conclusion, “When Science Meets Art” was a captivating event that showcased how science can be intertwined with art to create something beautiful. The event brought together experts from different fields to share their knowledge with audiences who were eager to learn more about both science and art. The performance by Shen Fanxiu and Liu Ye was truly breathtaking while Shu Degan’s insights into Darwin’s work helped bridge the gap between science and culture.
