Collegium Helveticum Event
The Art and Science of Liquid Interfaces
Zurich, Switzerland
March 25-26, 2025
Liquid interfaces -
a mix of science and art
Fluid interfaces represent a frontier in both scientific research and artistic exploration, offering profound insights into complex physical interactions and aesthetic possibilities. The conference 'The Art and Science of Liquid Interfaces' serves as a confluence of disciplines, where experts in physics, chemistry, biology, and engineering converge to advance our fundamental understanding of liquid behavior.
This event distinguishes itself by integrating scientific rigor with artistic innovation, providing a platform for interdisciplinary dialogue that challenges conventional boundaries. Presentations will not only address the technical aspects of fluid dynamics but will also incorporate artistic interpretations that highlight the intrinsic beauty of fluid phenomena.
Hosted by the Collegium Helveticum at the 160-year-old Semper observatory in Zurich, the conference promises a stimulating atmosphere conducive to both academic and creative exchanges. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with pioneering research, witness live art performances, and explore artistic exhibits that visually narrate the science of liquid interfaces.
Sponsored by
Invited Speakers
Irmgard Bischofberger
MIT
Pierre-Thomas
Brun
Princeton
Andrea
Ling
ETH Zurich
Kathleen
Stebe
University
of Pennsylvania
Andrew deMello
ETH Zurich
Lucio
Isa
ETH Zurich
Diana Cholakova
University of Sofia
Steffen
Hardt
TU Darmstadt
Nikolai
Denkov
University of Sofia
Outi
Supponen
ETH Zurich
David
Quéré
ESPCI
Emmanuel Delamarche
ETH Zurich
Valeri
Frumkin
University of Boston
Moran Bercovici
Technion
Live art performance
COSMODERNISM - the abstract beauty of liquid interfaces - hybrid live/VJ show
Kamil Czapiga
A 60 minute performance using live microscopy accompanied by original sound tracks that enhance the visual experience.
Program
Please note that the program is subject to change.
Art exhibits
LiquiFab – Crafting with Liquids in Weightlessness
Material Topology Research Lab and Fluidic Technologies Lab, Technion
Exhibited at the Collegium's Gallery
LiquidFab is an artistic manifestation of academic research on the construction of optical and architectural structures in space. LiquiFab transforms a volume of liquid polymer into a desired 3D shape. In contrast to 3D printers which create the structure point-by-point, LiquiFab uses the natural physics of fluids in a zero-gravity environment to shape the entire liquid at once. Both full and hollow structures can be formed, characterized by smooth lines and extreme smoothness. These can be used independently or as building blocks for larger constructs. The exhibit will showcase LiquiFab elements created in a neutral buoyancy environment that simulates weightlessness, as well as videos of experiments performed on board the international space station.
Cosmodernism - the abstract beauty of liquid interfaces
A video exhibition at the Collegium's Laboratory
Cosmodernism is the brainchild of Kamil Czapiga, an artist who delves into the realms of abstract video art, photography, and sound design. Born from a fascination with microscopic and cosmic perspectives, this intermedia art project began in 2019 in Katowice, Poland. Kamil, a self-taught experimenter, uses liquids, various chemicals, dyes, reactions, physical objects and original micro film sets to capture stunning visuals that echo the intricacies of the universe.
His works, which often seem computer-generated, are crafted through empirical experimentation, pushing the boundaries of perception and artistic expression. Coupled with original soundtracks that enhance the visual experience, Cosmodernism offers a unique exploration of abstract expression and the complex beauty of both the micro and macro worlds.
Venue
The symposium will take place at the old Semper observatory in Zurich. This historic building, in which the Collegium Helveticum is located, still houses the telescope used for early sunspot discoveries, and is a gem at the heart of Zurich.
Address:
Semper-Sternwarte (ETH/STW)
Schmelzbergstrasse 25
CH-8006 Zurich
Switzerland
Weather
Average temperatures at the end of March: 13 C high, 3 C low.
Precipitation: light rain.
Dress code
Casual.
Registration
Participation in the event includes access to all the talks, the artistic performance, exhibitions, meals, and social events. We have a limited number of spots, dictated by the size of the lecture hall. We welcome anyone who is interested in the topic, but priority in registration will be given to students and postdocs who commit to presenting a poster related to 'the art and science of liquid interfaces' and to attending the full two days.
Please apply by filling out this
Contact
Moran Bercovici
Visiting Professor, Soft Materials and Interfaces group, Department of Material Science, ETH
Senior Fellow, Collegium Helveticum
Email: mberco@technion.ac.il
Lucio Isa
Professor of Soft Materials and Interfaces, Department of Material Science, ETH
MaP Doctoral School Director
Email: lucio.isa@mat.ethz.ch