Project Overview
This project is a creative documentation of my Senior Thesis Project. The output of the project is an illustrated book comprising of intensive scientific research, public engagement activities and botanical paintings for recordkeeping.
Credits
The project was mentored by Dr. Ipsa Jain throughout. Additional guidance and feedback by Dr. Farhat Ara.
Labs: NCBS, IISc, Bangalore
Developed at Srishti Institute of Art, Design and Technology, Bangalore.
Project Duration
The duration of the project was
4 months.
Keywords: citizen science, research, public engagement, botanical illustration, visual design, observation, documentation.
Concept
The project Curious Case of Leaves' Palettes illustrates my curious journey of research and exploration.
The project centres around the theme of citizen science. The final output, an illustrated book, is a compilation of my process of setting up experiments and driving public engagement.
Scientific Experimentation + Creative Documentation
My process was broadly divided into two parts: Scientific exploration and Public engagement. For my scientific process, my primary research was under two categories- paper chromatography and UV light study.
The core essence of my thesis was driven by my curiosity of different colours and patterns in leaves. I collected 50+ leaves to study the composition of the colours of leaves using paper chromatography and carefully noting down the observations.
Looking under the UV light to see how the pigmentation in the leaves appears so different under differenting light conditions.
Nature Walks: Public Engagement
I conducted nature walks at Cubbon Park and Yelahanka, Bangalore. Nature Walks can be an effective way to connect with nature and reignite curiosity. These sessions involved closely observing the surroundings, asking questions, and having friendly conversations. The walks were followed by a painting session to reflect on the walk and artistically record our takeaways.
Storytelling
For my illustrated book, I designed a tiny character of myself who takes the reader through the journey of my explorations. The tone of the book is very engaging and it aims to provoke creative thinking.
Behind The Scenes
Not only did the project deepen my scientific and creative understanding, but also helped me meet a lot of new people and create a community of like-minded people. This project wouldn't have been completed without the support of all my friends, acquaintances and strangers, now turned friends, who so enthusiastically participated in my engagement activities. A huge thank you to all of them.
