Quantum science deals with the smallest particles in nature. It is bringing about a revolution in our understanding of the origins of the universe and delivering ground-breaking technology. At the forefront of quantum research are scientists from the University of Nottingham and across the country, whose pioneering work has established both the university and the UK as centres of excellence in this fast-evolving field.

The exhibition features new commissions by nine artists who have each spent time working alongside world-leading researchers in quantum physics. Through immersive sculptural installations and photography, they give expression to the excitement, wonder and poetry of cutting-edge scientific discovery that is transforming our future.

Artists include Conrad Shawcross RA; Studio Above&Below; Alistair McClymont, Matthew Woodham, Monica C. LoCascio & daniela brill estrada, David Severn, Jim Grainger. Cosmic Titans is curated and organised by the University of Nottingham’s Prof. Silke Weinfurtner, School of Mathematical Sciences, Dr Ulrike Kuchner, Senior Research Fellow, School of Physics and Astronomy and Neil Walker Head of Visual Arts Programming, Lakeside Arts.

With thanks to UKRI: STFC (Science and Technologies Facilities Council), EPSRC (Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council), UKRI: HEIF (Higher Education Innovation Funding), SIF (Strategic Innovation Fund), APEX Award (in partnership with the British Academy, Royal Academy of Engineering, the Royal Society and Leverhulme Trust), BMKÖS (Federal Ministry of Arts and Culture Austria), University of Oxford: Department of Physics, Imperial College London, QTFP (Quantum Technologies for Fundamental Physics) and AION (UK atom interferometer observatory and network).

Image: Conrad Shawcross with Ringdown 2024. Photo: Richard Ivey

See below for associated talks, gallery tours and demonstrations.