Evidentia Series
Working in a traditional folk art, I explore the importance of using scientific research in decision-making. This work brings together my science background and a lifetime of fiber art.
My pieces are visual and tactile invitations to conversations about scientific results, the scientific process, the role of science in making decisions, and the impact of technology on our lives.
I choose charts that convey information in a user-friendly and visually appealing way. By presenting the data without axes or units (available by clicking through the images on my Portfolio) I emphasize the trends shown by the data. I start creating one of my pieces with information I find from reputable news sources, other readings, and discussions. I refer to the original publication of the results and evaluate the legitimacy of the research and analysis. I then convert these data into knitable form, choose yarn, usually yarn I’ve dyed myself, and knit the piece.
The charts I present are the work of the scientists who did the research, including careful data collection, rigorous analysis, and peer review. I present these graphs on hand-knit shawls and scarves, using soft yarn and pretty colors. This juxtaposition emphasizes that data have implications not only in the lab but also in our daily lives.
The science I show is about issues that are complex and difficult. How do we balance the implications of data with our values? What role does science play? How do the results shown in these graphs impact your thoughts on issues of importance? How can we address the processes revealed by these graphs? What more information do we need and how do we find it?
I also dye yarns and fibers inspired by Montana landscapes as Raven Ridge Fiber Arts.
I'm supported in my work by my husband, Charles Janson (retired biology professor, photographer), my sons Lucas Janson (Assistant Professor, Harvard U) and Peter Janson (Artist), and daughter Liliana Janson (Reviewer).
All photos is Charles Janson at Charles Janson Nature Photos.