Exploring fragile alpine nature through the lenses of art & science

Led by environmental scientist Dr. Inka Koch and artist-in-residence Angharad Dean participants immersed themselves in the pristine environment, using both scientific observation and artistic expression to engage with the wilderness. 

Pine stone forests of several hundred years of age, diminishing glaciers freshly covered by Saharan dust, hexagonal garnet minerals just weathered out of the million-year-old rocks, alpine buttercups and fresh clear mountain water could be observed, measured and experienced by the participants. The experience from the morning scientific discoveries was channelled into creative expressions in the afternoons. Participants translated their observations into prints, paintings, and drawings. In addition to these traditional approaches, some used ChatGPT to co-create pieces or incorporated natural artefacts to sculpt three-dimensional works. This interdisciplinary approach fostered reflection upon human’s imprint on nature in these far to reach places, and the significance of preserving or reestablishing an intact ecosystem.  

This excursion, part of the Transdisciplinary Course Program, is open to all students, combining outdoor adventure, scientific inquiry, and creative expression. Participants returned not only with new knowledge but also with a renewed sense of responsibility to protect these vulnerable, wild spaces.