USU's Science Unwrapped Explores Hidden Physics Behind Artistic Expression on Sept. 18

The world is filled with moments that make us stop and wonder: A beautiful piece of music, the colors of a rainbow, the shimmering surface of a soap bubble, or the rich sound of a musical instrument.

“Although these experiences seem completely different, they are connected in remarkable ways,” says Utah State University physicist David Smith. “At Science Unwrapped, we’re going to explore the surprising physics behind wondrous sights and sounds we encounter every day.”

Smith, senior lecturer in USU’s Department of Physics, will present “The Hidden Science Behind Artistic Expression,” at 7 p.m. Sept. 18 in the Eccles Science Learning Center Emert Auditorium, Room ESLC 130, on the Logan campus.

All ages are invited to the free gathering, hosted by USU’s College of Arts and Sciences (ArtSci).

Hands-on learning activities led by USU student groups and community volunteers, along with refreshments, will follow the half-hour presentation.

“Our Sept. 18 event is the kick-off of our new Fall 2026-Spring 2027 ‘InterPLAY of Art & Science’ series,” says Brynja Kohler, Science Unwrapped chair, associate dean in the College of Arts and Sciences, and professor in the Department of Mathematics and Statistics. “I won’t give away all the talk’s surprises, but get ready to make music together.”

Smith’s presentation will be video-recorded and posted on the Science Unwrapped website following the in-person event.

The InterPLAY of Art & Science series schedule is as follows:

• Sept. 18: “The Hidden Science Behind Artistic Expression,” USU physicist David Smith.
• Oct. 16: “The Physics of Ballet,” USU physicist Tonya Triplett and ballet dancer Becky Erickson.
• Nov. 13: “Uncreated: Being Human in the Age of AI,” Jordan Leary, visual artist and video game designer.
• Jan. 22: “Serious Sport as Serious Play,” USU kinesiologist Al Smith, Endowed Dean of the Emma Eccles Jones College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences.
• Feb. 26: “Science in Stage Effects,” USU video artist and set designer Joshua Legate.
• March 19: “Human Possibilities in Interplanetary Exploration,” planetary scientist Amanda Hendrix, Planetary Science Institute.
• April 2: “Sustainability in the Arctic,” science communicator Cana Itchuaqiyaq, Center for Sustainable Engagement in the Arctic, Virginia Tech University.

Directions and parking information are available on the program’s website. Parking for the event is free in the Aggie Parking Terrace at 700 E. 600 North, and in the Big Blue Parking Terrace at 850 E. 700 North. Motorists parking in these locations do not need to use the USU mobile parking application.

For more information, call 435-797-3517 or visit the Science Unwrapped website.