We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Agnes Chavez a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Agnes, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. What’s been the most meaningful project you’ve worked on?
The most meaningful project I have worked on is Space Messengers. Space Messengers is an Immersive Mixed Reality installation and international youth exchange exploring the universe through art, science and technology. This participatory installation visualizes thought-provoking reflections on the universe, encouraging participants to contemplate their role within it. Space Messengers evolved from an interdisciplinary collaboration among artists, scientists, interdisciplinary experts and youth ambassadors. Together we explore how the arts, humanities, philosophy, astrophysics, particle physics and space technologies can deepen our understanding of the universe and expand our identities as planetary citizens. Space Messengers serves as a powerful tool to ignite scientific curiosity and critical thinking, while evoking a sense of wonder and empowerment.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
STEMarts Lab is a nonprofit sci-arts organization based in Taos, New Mexico, committed to empowering youth through the integration of art, science, and technology. Our artist-focused approach offers students opportunities to collaborate with artists, scientists, and interdisciplinary experts, creating immersive sci-art experiences. Together, they develop their science literacy, acquire valuable work skills, and contribute to art installations showcased at museums and festivals in New Mexico and around the world.
In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?
In my view, society can best support artists, creatives, and a thriving creative ecosystem by acknowledging that the arts extend beyond traditional boundaries and can enrich any discipline. With advancements in technology and the internet, artists now have opportunities to share their work and engage with broader audiences. I believe it’s crucial for schools, scientific institutions, and cultural organizations to actively seek out collaborations with artists, fostering interdisciplinary projects that push the boundaries of conventional definitions of art. By embracing diverse perspectives and encouraging innovative approaches to creativity, society can create a more vibrant and inclusive environment for artists and creatives to thrive.”
What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
The most rewarding aspect of being an artist or creative is the opportunity to reimagine humanity through the art practice. Artists have the privilege of inspiring, informing, and empowering others on topics that resonate deeply with them. They have the freedom to craft their own narratives and explore innovative technologies in the process. What makes this journey even more fulfilling is the ability to empower the next generation by including them in this creative process. By engaging youth and fostering their creativity, artists can not only pass on valuable skills but also instill in them a sense of agency and possibility to imagine a better world.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.stemarts.com, www.sube.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stemartslab/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stemartslab/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/agnes-chavez/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCo57h-ww3rssT_oXGBCbZfQ
- Other: https://vimeo.com/stemartslab
Image Credits
Photographer: Malu Tavares