Genspace
Brooklyn, NY
February 25, 2023
2:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Learn how to work with protein models in Blender to create speculative molecular worlds exploring biological imaginaries.
When you think about the molecular world, one core skill is the ability to conceptualize or imagine invisible forms. But how do we do that? Scientists have been building databases of protein structures since the 1970s, but the tools for exploring these atomic masterpieces are still hard to access. Enter bioart.
Interdisciplinary artist Laura Splan will teach this beginner-friendly molecular modeling workshop that explores biotechnological imaginaries using Blender. Participants learn how to use this free, open source 3D modeling software with prepared PDB protein models to create speculative worlds. Blender techniques for working with materials, environments, add-ons, lighting, and other molecular visualization tools will be introduced in hands-on exercises.
Teaching Assistant: Nidhi Nagabhushan
Workshop photo documentation by Nidhi Nagabhushan for Genspace.
"It was absolutely lovely meeting you and experiencing your class. I had a great time learning and sharing. Thank you!"
"I liked that the class was very hands on! I feel empowered and with purpose. Thank you for the resources."
"Still thinking about how great of a class it was, love your teaching style! Bravo! Excited to move forward in Blender."
"I liked the structure of the class. Very motivating and exciting. I feel like I have a lot of the basic tools to get started now."
"Laura is very good at explaining the software."
"I liked the step by step tutorials—taking time to make sure it’s all working. I am excited to go into the database for protein molecules to import into blender."
"The class made this complex software accessible to us!"
"I liked the poetic nature of the class. Wonderful teacher."
"Laura is an excellent instructor. Loved all the preparations and process sharing. Wonderful time."
"I liked the step-by-step learning."
"I feel a lot more comfortable with Blender now. Ready to attempt more tutorials. I always love the classes!"
