Last week we brought you events that were athletic and artistic, and this week we’re continuing the mix-and-match theme with art and science. STEM careers have been continually touted as the careers that are moneymakers and nation-builders–and why not, STEM pursuits are important and awesome! But many believe a better acronym is in order. STEAM notes the importance of the “A” in in the equation–Art(s). The arts and sciences shouldn’t be mutually exclusive; they talk to each other and go together in more ways than you may think. So to celebrate STEAM, here are some science events, arts events, and a few that bring both together.
Philadelphia Science Festival
When: April 24 – May 2 Where: Across Philadelphia Cost: Varies (most are FREE!)
PSF is an awesome week-long celebration of science and technology in everyday life that features over 100 interactive events, lectures, debates, hands-on activities, and science education throughout the city. Here are some that we highlighted in our article on PSF: Explorer Sunday at Rowan University, a day dedicated to STEAM that will feature exploring science through world cultures and history, designing and playing your own video games, and more; Science of Networking, a workshop and mixer that will teach arts and science students alike the science behind building a professional network; and Science Night at the Ballpark, a night of Phillies baseball and the science behind America’s pastime. Be sure to get nerdy and check out some of these awesome events!
April’s Twilight in the Gardens
When: April 24, 7:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. Where: Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens, 1020 South Street, Philadelphia Cost: $12
The Magic Gardens is a perennial favorite, and it’s a great place to enjoy artwork. Twilight in the Gardens is a monthly series that puts a modern spin on several forms of classical art. As the sun sets on Philly, you can enjoy the tunes of Damn Tall Buildings and tap into your artsy side with a traditional-and-contemporary-styles-blended chalkboard art workshop with Kelly Franklin. You can also explore the mosaics, partake in an Instagram scavenger hunt, and check out the rarely-seen mosaicked basement. Bring your own blanket and snacks, and enjoy a night of art and exploration with friends! (For the 21+ crowd, bring your own wine or enjoy some for purchase at the event).
Philly Tech Week
When: April 16 – 25 Where: Across Philadelphia Cost: Varies
Philly Tech Week is another great chance for you to geek out and celebrate the creativity, the business, and the science of technology. Our article on Philly Tech Week highlighted some of the fun events going on, and there are a handful of events that have a more creative angle, including: 3D Print Me Philly, where you can get a mini 3D version of yourself printed; the Mashed Media Awards, an evening that recognizes the best youth media in Philly, from video and photography to music and spoken word; and an Electronic Music Workshop with BEEP, which will explore how to use computers and digital technology for real-time music performance, as well as how computers can be used expressively. See the full calendar of events here!
Restoring the Land Through Environmental Art
When: April 26, 1:o0 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Where: The Schuykill Center for Environmental Education, 8480 Hagy’s Mill Road, Philadelphia Cost: FREE!
This event is part of PSF, but it deserves its own slot in this week’s Top 5. You’ll have the chance to explore the Schuylkill Center‘s fields and forests, and in the process you’ll see how art can be used to solve ecological challenges (like invasive plants or decreasing pollinator populations). LandLab resident artists will discuss how their installations were conceptualized and developed, as well as how they merged art and science to creative positive change for the land. The great part about this event is that it will show how the merging perspectives of both artists and scientists can offer creative solutions to environmental issues.
Coffee & Jazz: Vocal Jazz Ensemble, Naturally Sharp
When: April 24, 8:15 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. Where: MacAlister Hall, City View Room, 33rd and Chestnut Street, Philadelphia Cost: $7
Enjoy a night of jazz and dessert, courtesy of Drexel’s vocal jazz ensemble Naturally Sharp. Starting at sunset at the top of MacAlister Hall, the Philadelphia skyline will be the backdrop for the performance. This end-of-year concert is a relaxing environment where you can sit back and enjoy the sounds of the talented jazz group. In addition to the music, coffee and dessert will be offered. Tickets are only $7 at the door, so come out and support this awesome musical group!
