Exhibition: Rotch Library, The Poetry of Science

From December 6, 2021, to February 28, 2022, The Poetry of Science was exhibited at MIT’s Rotch Gallery, presenting a dynamic blend of poetry and photography that highlights the experiences and contributions of scientists of color. Directed by Joshua Sariñana, PhD, this multimedia project merges art and science to challenge traditional narratives and foster positive associations between communities of color and the sciences. Each work pairs portraits of scientists, visually embedded into natural landscapes, with poetry that explores their research, motivations, and lives.

The exhibition seeks to bridge the gap between the sciences and the humanities, creating a space where diverse voices and experiences are amplified. By presenting scientists as integral components of the natural and intellectual environments they study, the project emphasizes their critical role in shaping knowledge and perceptions of reality. Sariñana’s leadership, informed by his background in neuroscience, art, and science communication, has been pivotal in bringing this interdisciplinary vision to life.