Structures, Systems, and Society: Work at the Interface of Art and Engineering
September 11 - December 21, 2025
Barbara and Lee Maimon Teaching Gallery, Level 2
“The walls between art and engineering exist only in our minds.”
— Theo Jansen, Dutch artist
The disciplines of engineering and art are often seen as separate to the point of being oppositional. But from the ancient world to the present day, artists, makers, and scientists have used engineering principles to solve creative challenges and push the boundaries of their mediums.
A diverse selection of objects from the Palmer’s collection appear alongside works by Penn State makers to investigate three intersections between art and engineering. Structures explores the physical forms and frameworks that support innovation, blending function and aesthetics in design. Systems examines the interconnected processes behind artistic and technological creation, highlighting shared methods like visualization and iteration. Society focuses on the cultural and ethical impact of engineering, showing how art fosters empathy, equity, and responsible innovation.
By delving into the many ways that art and engineering converge, this exhibition engages with key questions: How is the modern, technologically focused world missing out on critical innovations and progress because of a siloed approach to engineering? How can art serve as both a critique and a source of creative energy for engineering? How can the incorporation of art into engineering practice benefits students, researchers, and society as a whole?
Organized by the Palmer in collaboration with Sarah Zappe, Assistant Dean for Teaching and Learning, College of Engineering, Joseph Cusumano, Professor of Engineering Science and Mechanics, and Benjamin Fehl, School of Engineering Design and Innovation lecturer.