Exploring the Intersection of Art and Science with Jana Striova on Discoscienza

Art is often thought of as a product of talent, inspiration, genius, and passion. But beneath its beauty lies a fascinating world of matter and materials—a world where chemistry, physics, and biology play crucial roles. In a recent episode of the podcast Discoscienza by Andrea Bellati, this intriguing interplay was brought to life through an enlightening conversation with Jana Striova, senior researcher at the National Institute of Optics of the Italian National Research Council (CNR-INO) in Florence.

The episode, titled “An Artwork is Also Science,” dives deep into the scientific dimensions of art. Striova’s expertise in cultural heritage science sheds light on how modern analytical techniques can reveal the secrets hidden within works of art. These methods not only help preserve cultural treasures but also offer new perspectives on the materials and techniques used by artists throughout history.

During the interview, Striova elaborates on the interdisciplinary nature of her work. As a senior researcher, she collaborates with chemists, physicists, biologists, and conservators to analyze and safeguard priceless cultural artifacts. “Artworks are not just objects of aesthetic and emotional value; they are also repositories of scientific information,” she explains.

Advanced technologies such as spectroscopy, imaging, and laser-based methods are key tools in her arsenal. These techniques allow researchers to study the composition and degradation of materials without causing harm to the artifacts themselves. Striova highlighted several compelling case studies where science unveiled hidden layers of paintings, identified original pigments, or even detected previous restoration efforts.

One of the podcast’s recurring themes is the synergy between art and science. Striova’s work exemplifies this connection, demonstrating how scientific inquiry can deepen our understanding and appreciation of artistic masterpieces. The conversation also touches on the challenges of working in such a multidisciplinary field, including the need to communicate complex scientific concepts to art historians and the general public.

Andrea Bellati’s Discoscienza podcast is renowned for making science accessible and engaging, and this episode is no exception. Striova’s insights, combined with Bellati’s dynamic interviewing style, make for a captivating discussion that appeals to scientists, art enthusiasts, and anyone curious about the hidden stories behind great works of art.

To hear the full conversation, tune into the podcast on Spotify: Listen here.