Week 8 - NanoArt

Since nanotechnology is the science of manipulating matter at an atomic and molecular scale, one could combine it with art to create an art gallery full of paintings, drawings, and sculptures smaller than the period at the end of this sentence.

According to Cristian Orfescu, “NanoArt is a more appealing and effective way to communicate with the general public and to inform people about the new technologies of the 21^st Century”. NanoArt helps make visible what cannot ordinarily be seen with the naked eye and provides insight into the new understandings of materiality and life. It could help the public realize that the development and application of nanotechnology could lead to economic growth, enhanced national security, and a better quality of life.

(Figure 1 Fish by J Sha
 At a mere 40 microns tall with features
as small as 250 nanometers, Fish is smaller
than a spec of dust and 1/8th the width of
 a stand of hair.)

Although the final goal of NanoArt artists is generally the same, the processes utilized in NanoArt can radically differ.

The first method that some artists may use is called nanoentonography, which was developed by ARmark Authentication Technologies. Products created with this process are impossible to replicate because nanoentonography involves infinite possibilities for unique coding by incorporating microscopic layers of covert marker to create brand-owner specific information. One of the first of several works to be created through nanoentonography is Fish by artist J Sha, and is believed to be the smallest piece of flat artwork.  

(Figure 2 Quantum dots, depending on
 their size, emit light at different frequencies.)

Another method to produce NanoArt is to utilize nanoparticles, which are the most common in nanotechnology. According the New York Times, “Medieval artisans unknowingly became nanotechnologists when they made red stained glass by mixing gold chloride into molten glass”. One scientist that works with nanoparticles is Dr. Alivisatos, and the type of nanoparticles he works with is known as quantum dots, which can be tailored to fluoresce specific colors. The main purpose of quantum dots is to replace current dyes used for lighting up protein and DNA that quickly fade. Quantum dots could allow tracking of biological reactions in living cells for days or longer.

(Figure 3 Materials scientist Samuel Stupp
designed molecules with the capacity
to self-assemble into nanofibers once
 injected into the body with syringe.)

Nanotechnology can revolutionize numerous electronic products, procedures, and applications. In the medical field, nanotechnology can create smart drugs which help cure people faster without the side effects that other toxic traditional drugs have.  According to Professor Gimzewski in Lecture, nanotechnology in medicine is now focusing on tissue regeneration and cures for life threatening diseases. With the assistance of NanoArt, the public can be informed of nanotechnologies numerous benefits. 

Works Cited

"Advantages and Disadvantages of Nanotechnology."Introduction to Nanotechnology. Nanotechnology, 05 Apr 2010. Web. 25 Nov 2013. 

Chang, Kenneth. "Tiny Is Beautiful: Translating 'Nano' Into Practical." The New York Times. N.p., 22 Feb 2005. Web. 25 Nov 2013. <http://www.nytimes.com/2005/02/22/science/22nano.html>.

Figure 1. Sha, J. Fish. 2007. Photograph. NanoWerkWeb. 24 Nov 2013. 

<http://www.nanowerk.com/news/id1743.jpg>.

Figure 2. Dubertret, Benoit. Quantum Dots. 2004. Photograph. ExtremeTechWeb. 25 Nov 2013. <http://www.extremetech.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/quantum_dots_c-640x415.jpg>.

Figure 3. Stupp, Samuel. Self-Assemble Nanofibers. 2007. Photograph. ScienceDailyWeb. 25 Nov 2013. <http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2007/05/070503205701.htm>.

Fisher, Gus. "Art of the invisible: Exploring the world of nanotechnology." The University of Auckland New Zealand. The University of Auckland, 23 Feb 2013. Web. 24 Nov 2013. <http://www.creative.auckland.ac.nz/uoa/home/about/events/events-archive/gusfisher-eventsarchive/events/template/event_item.jsp?cid=542497>.

"NanoWerk." Nanotechnology art as anti-counterfeiting technology. NanoWerk, 09 Apr 2007. Web. 24 Nov 2013. <http://www.nanowerk.com/news/newsid=1743.php>.

Orfescu, Christian. "NanoArt and Technology ." NanoArt. Cristian Orfescu, n.d. Web. 24 Nov 2013. <http://nanoart.org/>.