This Saturday, May 18, Tartu's Toome Hill will unveil a unique installation that merges art and science, specifically genetics, in a fascinating symbiosis. Titled "Lifesaver," this installation by artist Valdek Laur features four different instruments placed across Toome Hill, each playing four notes that represent DNA's four amino acids.
Each instrument is accompanied by a short musical piece, easily playable by following the provided color codes. Additionally, visitors can scan QR codes to hear digital synthesizer interpretations of these genetic melodies.
The main sign about the installation is located near the towers of the ruins of Tartu Cathedral. The instruments themselves can be found at various points across the hill: at the foot of Kissing Hill (Musumägi), near the statues of Kristjan Jaak Peterson and Karl Ernst von Baer, and next to Rotund Cafe.
Valdek Laur, an artist known for his work in digital media and jewelry and metal art, spearheaded the project. He collaborated with metal artist Fred Truus and musician Silver Sepp to create these "gene music" instruments. Laur is deeply interested in scientific communication and the visualization of complex concepts and data sets.
Laur emphasized that life, with its complexity and diversity, is built on combinations of just four chemical compounds. "Small matches can bring about phenomena that shape the world," Laur explained. "It's a matter of constantly replaying simple rules."
Each of the four-note metal instruments sounds different, just like the diverse life forms around us.
Engaging Young Minds
Art researcher and freelance curator Mary-Ann Talvistu, a jury member for the artist competition, noted Laur's commitment to scientific communication. "He has a clear interest in collaborating with geneticists to create a science-driven work of art for Toomemägi," Talvistu stated. She also highlighted Laur's emphasis on involving young people in the creative process.
The installation is the culmination of a project that began last spring with students from Tartu Kivilinna School. These students visited the University of Tartu Estonian Biobank and University of Tartu Museum, gaining new insights which they used to create science-art projects. Their works were exhibited in summer 2023 at the university museum.
"Lifesaver" is part of "Toomemägi Revisited," a broader initiative within Tartu 2024's main program as European Capital of Culture.
This installation promises to offer an innovative and interactive way to explore the intersection of genetics and art, engaging visitors of all ages in the wonders of scientific discovery and artistic expression.
