At the Quantum AI Lab of Google, a distinctive convergence of art and science is unfolding. Forest Stearns, an artist residing in the lab, and Erik Lucero, the mastermind behind Google’s pioneering quantum AI computer, are on a mission to metamorphose the lab into a center of imaginative expression. This endeavor was recently spotlighted by Mike Cerre for PBS NewsHour’s cultural series, CANVAS.
Stearns articulated, “We have established an environment where boundaries blur between the hardware, art, architecture, scientists, and nature itself visible through the windows.” This statement encapsulates the seamless fusion of diverse elements within the lab, embodying a comprehensive approach to innovation.
Lucero, on the other hand, expressed his admiration for the synergy between science and art. He shared, “I’ve always strived to capture the beauty inherent in our creations in electrical engineering and physics,” showcasing his profound appreciation for the aesthetic facets of scientific pursuits.
The collaboration commenced when Lucero extended an invitation to Stearns to join the lab, captivated by his Draweverywhere project, which had been etched onto satellites orbiting in space. Stearns remarked, “Having pioneered the largest art showcase in space, the idea struck me to infuse art onto technological entities to amplify human experience.”
Central to this artistic endeavor is the belief that art can enrich and ignite technological progress. The lab showcases sculptures, 3-D installations, and even the quantum computers themselves adorned with artistic flair. Amusingly, Stearns likened the quantum computer to a beer keg.
Ravis Henry, a park ranger and Navajo artist, contributed to the initiative, infusing his metal craftsmanship with a unique perspective. His creations, embodying local materials and traditional methods, acquire a fresh context within the lab’s scientific milieu. Lucero, blending his roles as a scientist and an artist, enriched the artistic ambiance by painting a mural.
Technician Jacob Aguilar acknowledged the positive influence of this vibrant setting on the lab’s ambiance. “The vivid colors here truly help us express our creativity,” he noted, a sentiment echoed by his colleague William Giang, who expressed a desire to bring a piece of the lab’s art into his own home.
Lucero underscored the human element behind these technological strides. “It’s crucial to recognize that real individuals are dedicated to these projects, deeply valuing our origins, our environment, and the planet we call home,” emphasizing the profound connection between creators, their work, and their surroundings.
The endeavor at Google’s Quantum AI Lab epitomizes the potency of amalgamating art and science. It not only nurtures a creative and stimulating workspace but also serves as a testament to the human ingenuity propelling technological advancements. This distinctive fusion of art and technology at Google’s lab underscores the boundless potential when diverse domains converge to push the frontiers of possibility.
Featured image: PBS NewsHour
