Science Friday How ‘Science Interpreters’ Make Hidden Science Visible
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Apr 17, 2025 Janet Iwasa, head of the University of Utah’s Animation Lab, and Tim Lee, director of exhibits at the Natural History Museum of Utah, discuss the art of making complex science accessible. They highlight how storytelling, engaging visuals, and innovative dioramas bring science to life. Iwasa shares how animations prompt researchers to rethink experiments, while Lee addresses the importance of accuracy in science communications. Together, they emphasize community support's role in enhancing public understanding of science.
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Early Signs of a Museum Career
- Tim Lee's childhood passion for dioramas foreshadowed his career.
- He collected objects, sketched observations, and always incorporated dioramas into school projects.
From Stick Figures to Animations
- Janet Iwasa's interest in science animation sparked during a lab meeting in graduate school.
- A protein animation helped her understand complex processes better than traditional stick figures.
The Power of Dioramas
- Dioramas offer immersive experiences that capture the imagination and connect people to nature.
- Tim Lee found inspiration in observing children interacting with museum dioramas.