Free lecture on Einstein and Picasso

The UAA Honors College is pleased to welcome Arthur I. Miller as its 2007 Undergraduate Research and Discovery Symposium keynote speaker.On Wed., April 18 at 8:00 p.m. in UAA's Art Building, room 150, Miller will give a free lecture entitled, "Einstein, Picasso:  Space, Time, and the Beauty That Causes Havoc."

Almost simultaneously, in the first decade of the 20th Century, when the avant-garde was at its height, Einstein discovered relativity and Picasso discovered cubism. How and why did such a simultaneous discovery happen? This fascinating story involves coming to grips with wide-ranging questions such as what similarities in creativity exist between artists and scientists; what artists and scientists mean by 'aesthetics' and 'beauty'; whether or not creativity can be unraveled at its highest level.  Miller, Professor Emeritus of History and Philosophy of Science at University College London, will examine these and other fascinating questions during his evening lecture.
 
Arthur I. Miller is the science presenter on WGBH's NOVA production, "Einstein," and has appeared on The Late Show, in addition to numerous radio programs and TV programs. His books include Insights of Genius: Imagery and Creativity in Science and Art and Einstein, Picasso: Space, Time and the Beauty that Causes Havoc, which was nominated for a Pulitzer Prize. His latest book, Empire of the Stars: Friendship, Obsession and Betrayal in the Quest for Black Holes, was short listed for the Aventis Prize.

Miller's visit is part of a multi-day celebration honoring outstanding research and creative work done by undergraduate students at UAA. Featured events include the Undergraduate Research Awards ceremony and project presentations, Undergraduate Research Poster Fair, the Student Showcase academic conference, a music gala, and the annual Juried Student Art Exhibit. The Symposium also features a keynote lecture by a distinguished researcher.

For additional information Arthur I. Miller's lecture, or about the Undergraduate Research and Discovery Symposium, please contact Jill Gutzler at 786-1549 or anjmg6@uaa.alaska.edu.