Is there a way to collaborate with students for investigating possible futures, defining the preferable ones, and then working toward them?

In this session, you will learn about the unique art-based research approach used in the conceptualization and hear from the students about their experience working alongside scientists and artists to explore important biotechnological trends. We are also excited to discuss the potential of BioDesign, a fast-growing movement of scientists, artists, and designers that integrates organic processes and materials into design. After the speakers introduce their projects, we will open the floor for a live Q&A session.

Aula Future is an interdisciplinary research and academic organization with the mission of growing the next generation of these innovative creators. Harnessing speculative design and art-thinking methods, we imagine new technologies, brainstorm solutions, and design for future scenarios.

Aula, in collaboration with FirstHand at the Science Center and 12 students from Robeson High School, demonstrated that combining art, design, and biotechnology can generate exciting social-impact concepts and prototypes, all based in extensive research. This process provides students with an educational opportunity unlike most others.

The students submitted their projects to the BioDesign Challenge, an education program and competition usually taking place at the MoMA in New York.