21st Century Renaissance

enABELing Innovation with Art (with Harvey Seifter and Fred Mandell)

Seasoned executives as well as professional musician and artist, Harvey Seifter and Fred Mandell present the arts-based experiential learning "ABEL" system - a dynamic learning and development system born out of a 10-year research funded by the National Science Foundation - with stories of real world impact it has made: from catalyzing novel products and services at incubators to elevating performance of leadership teams at Fortune 500 companies. We dive into the system’s unique processes and mechanisms to bring about transformational change, such as transliteration of insights from visual arts, and different flavors of improvisational intelligence imparted by a jazz ensemble as compared to a multi-leader classical orchestra. We discuss the system’s relevance in the age of AI and exponential technologies, and the value of collaboration even for innovation led by autocratic leaders with strong personalities. We exchange views on the role of informal education and life-long learning to counter the rigid, hierarchical and monolithic formal education structure entrenched in our society, no longer well-suited for navigating the volatile, topsy-turvy world we live in today.

Curiosity and the Art of Reimagining Scientific Discovery (with Rebecca Kamen), Part 2

Discussion on Rebecca Kamen's ArtScience career, continued: how a visit to China influenced her trajectory and how her art practice inspires scientists. The creative processes of art and science, the power of curiosity for both, and the aesthetics of science. Her new research connecting science and cultural forms and her view on new technologies such as AI and VR. In addition, her reflections on her career journey, the ingredients of her success, and the changing ecosystem for ArtScience polymaths.

Curiosity and the Art of Reimagining Scientific Discovery (with Rebecca Kamen), Part 1

Following a special presentation from Prof. Rebecca Kamen with an overview of her ArtScience practice, we discuss in-depth her artworks bridging diverse scientific fields - anywhere from the "macro" of astrophysics and solar corona to the "micro" of neurons and coronavirus. She also tells her personal stories of turning disadvantages and crises such as dyslexia and brain tumor into learning opportunities and creative inspirations.

Of Glass, Color, and Light: Seeing Anew! (with Dr. Don McPherson)

Enchroma inventor’s journey as an artist, scientist, then serial entrepreneur, where perseverance interplayed with serendipity. The art and science of color vision, the history of glass and the lens technology enriching people’s sensory experience and changing their lives. The philosophy of perception and paradox of color psychology. A candid reflection on entrepreneurship, and a humble introspection on what the Color Deficient can teach us.

The Other AI: Why Aesthetic Intelligence Matters (with Pauline Brown)

Why aesthetic intelligence is important for nearly every company regardless of industry, and why it matters to individuals both personally and professionally. A new digital divide and its implications on our senses and on business strategy.  Pauline impresses with her wealth of knowledge and experience, a reflective view of luxury, fashion and business in general, as well as life wisdom and her unique self, which she’s never afraid of being in the stodgy corporate world.