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Sharon Lee Hart, MFA, was a guiding light in the creation of the Art of Science photography contest, and remains a vital part of the team of jurors.

"The showcase invites a broader audience to engage with the innovative creative and scientific research being pursued at Â鶹¾«Æ·ÊÓƵand directs attention to the strong connection between art and science," said Hart, an associate professor of art and head of photography in the Dorothy F. Schmidt College of Arts and Letters. "The overlap can be seen in various ways, including methods of exploration and through the questions being asked.

As a visual artist, Hart's work explores links between humans, non-human animals and the natural world through a lens-based practice and cameraless experimentation with photographic materials. Her work is in several permanent collections including The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art in Missouri, and has exhibited worldwide.

Hart said she looks forward to playing an important role in the Art of Science again this year, adding, "In addition to conducting their own research that connects to the sciences, artists have the ability to communicate the scientific research of others in compelling ways. The showcase has the potential to inspire the Â鶹¾«Æ·ÊÓƵcommunity to further connect and pursue cross-disciplinary collaborations."