Human-induced global change has triggered the sixth major extinction event on earth with profound consequences for humans and other species. A scientifically literate public is necessary to find and implement approaches to prevent or slow species loss. Creating science-inspired art can increase public understanding of the current anthropogenic biodiversity crisis and help people connect emotionally to difficult concepts. In spite of the pressure to avoid advocacy and emotion, there is a rich history of scientists who make art, as well as art-science collaborations resulting in provocative work that engages public interest; however, such interdisciplinary partnerships can often be challenging to initiate and navigate. Here we explore the goals, impacts, and lessons learned from art-science collaborations, as well as ideas for collaborative projects. Using case studies based on Harrower’s art-science research - a stop motion animation, an online dating site to meet trees, a classroom education project, and an eco-clothing line – we ask: What features of the collaboration insure both scientific integrity and satisfying, creative roles for participating artists? What cascading impacts resulted from art-science collaborations? What are the benefits to soliciting feedback from the public during the creative process?
Results/Conclusions
Through these case studies we found that art has the potential to evoke a strong emotional response that could inspire new behaviors. Results from our surveys illustrate the importance of artists as a primary audience for science learning, which can lead to better collaborative outcomes and more engaging art. Time spent sharing knowledge can elevate the collaboration past the often-found service role of artist as illustrator into the more powerful artist as collaborator. Finally, a combination of art and science presentations (utilizing a multiple modality approach), can influence public understanding and concern related to species loss better than outreach within a single discipline.