Conclusion of the WANDlabor art project art@immunosensation

A unique collaboration between the University of Bonn, Bonn University Hospital, and Alanus University of Arts and Social Sciences in Alfter.

The innovative WANDlabor project, a collaboration between the ImmunoSensation Cluster of Excellence at the University of Bonn at Bonn University Hospital (UKB) and Alanus University of Arts and Social Sciences in Alfter, has been successfully completed. This interdisciplinary project combined pioneering immunological research with artistic and social science perspectives to create a unique platform for science communication and public engagement.

The aim of the WANDlabor project, carried out as part of the art@immunosensation collaboration, was to explore new ways of communicating scientific findings to the public. During the project’s two-year duration, researchers, artists, and students from the three institutions worked together to create an interactive art installation that translated complex immunological concepts into accessible and engaging experiences. Another noteworthy installation created through the collaboration is the TISCHgesellschaft, a table-bench sculpture. The sculpture invites people to linger and exchange ideas, creating a calm and restorative retreat in the often hectic daily lives of researchers. The installations were presented at various public locations to promote a deeper understanding of immunology among different target groups.

Prof. Paul Petry, Vice Dean of the Department of Fine Arts at Alanus University, emphasized the importance of such interdisciplinary collaborations: “The WANDlabor project has shown how art and science can come together to create tools for education and engagement.” Prof. Willem-Jan Beeren from the Department of Architecture added: “By combining our expertise, we were able to reach and inspire people who do not normally engage with scientific and immunological research.”

The closing event, held with the participation of the rectors of the participating universities, Prof. Dr. Dr. Michael Hoch (University of Bonn) and Prof. Dr. Hans-Joachim Pieper (Alanus University), celebrated the project’s achievements. Participants had the opportunity to experience the art installations firsthand and hear the stories of the researchers and artists involved.

Prof. Dr. Gunther Hartmann, Director of the Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Clinical Pharmacology at UKB and spokesperson for the ImmunoSensation Cluster of Excellence, further commented on the project’s success: “This project not only deepened the understanding of immunology, but also enriched our appreciation for the way art can communicate complex ideas. It was a rewarding journey for everyone involved, and we are proud of what we achieved together.”

The ImmunoSensation Cluster of Excellence, based at the University of Bonn, is known for its groundbreaking research in the field of immunology. Through the partnership with Alanus University, which is known for its focus on integrating art and social sciences, the project bridged the gap between scientific research and public engagement and demonstrated the potential of interdisciplinary collaboration. With the conclusion of the WANDlabor project, both institutions are eagerly looking ahead to further opportunities for collaboration in order to continue innovating at the intersection of science, art, and society.

The WANDlabor is located in the foyer and the TISCHgesellschaft on the lawn in front of Biomedical Center II (BMZII) at Bonn University Hospital (UKB). Opening hours: Monday to Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Further information about the art project art@immunosensation: https://www.alanus.edu/de/forschung-kunst/wissenschaftliche-kuenstlerische-projekte/detail/artimmunosensation

Caption:
Ceremonial conclusion of the WANDlabor project in July 2024: (from left): Prof. Michael Hoch (University of Bonn), Prof. Gunther Hartmann (ImmunoSensation), Dr. Catherine Drescher (ImmunoSensation), Prof. Willem-Jan Beeren (Alanus University), Prof. Paul Petry (Alanus University), Prof. Bernd Weber (University of Bonn/UKB Bonn), Prof. Hans-Joachim Pieper (Alanus University) © Alanus University
 

Contact for press inquiries:
+49 (0)2222 9321-1944
presse@alanus.edu

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