Over the past year, up-and-coming artists from Central St Martins have been working on an experimental creative project with scientists from the University of Oxford which aimed to push the boundaries of art and science. The project saw the artists and biologists, statisticians and geneticists immerse themselves in each other’s disciplines, find their synergies and collaboratively produce new artworks involving digital approaches.

This exhibition and symposium presents the collaborations of seven new artist-researcher pairs who approached the transdisciplinary across different digital media: a reimagination of tree sequencing through film; a conversation between AI and artist; a reflection on personal data; the visualisation and sonification of water molecules; our genetics and their landscapes; nanobody design through knitted sculptures; and upending ideas of perfection through consumerist 3D-printed works.

By intentionally embracing the ‘loading’ state, the event challenges conventional approaches to scientific collaboration, and envisions a future where meaningful partnerships require patience, deep engagement, and space for unexpected discoveries. This reimagining of transdisciplinary work suggests a new paradigm: one where pause and reflection become catalysts for innovation, rather than obstacles to overcome.

Loading… aims to engage the audience in interactive sessions and presentations, followed by a wine reception to encourage discussion of the works, and promote connections among art and research communities. A magazine publication about the works will also be launched during the event.