Features: Arts & Entertainment

Genetic research, meet hip-hop

Liz Lerman Dance Exchange's National Teen Institute
bridges science and the creative arts

Photos by Rosie Kaller

Teens gathered from the metro DC region and across the country to work with scientists, hip hop artists, poets, media artists and theater professionals at the Liz Lerman Dance Exchange Genome: National Teen Institute. From August 14-18 they studied aspects of genetic research, and create both individual and community artwork to reflect their understanding of genomics.

The annual National Teen Institute focuses on different themes each summer. This year's program was based on Ferocious Beauty: Genome, a multi-media Dance Exchange project developed in collaboration with genetic scientists, many of whom are integrated into the performance through videotaped segments.

"Finding common ground between science and dance is an ongoing journey at the Dance Exchange," said Elizabeth Johnson, Director of the Teen Exchange and Dance Exchange Associate Artistic Director. "As we worked with scientists in the development of Ferocious Beauty: Genome we realized that the two disciplines share an interest in improvisation, discovery, the creative process. When we work with the teens, we bring these shared areas to life."

"I see science as a creative endeavor," explains Dr. Marti Head, a computational chemist and a guest faculty member at the Genome Teen Institute. "I see beauty in the structure of DNA and of proteins, and in the way in which all of those pieces interact to make each one of us who we are. The work of this institute brings gives me the chance to introduce young, artistic minds to this beauty."

The institute culminated in a display of visual art and a performance of dance, theater, music and poetry developed during the five days.

For information about the Liz Lerman Dance Exchange and the National Teen Institute, see www.danceexchange.org.