Ecological Science and Engineering Interdisciplinary Graduate Program seeks artists to participate in an exciting symposium on polarization. We are now accepting artwork from a variety of media that reflect on the symposium's theme of polarization. Up to 15 pieces of art will be selected from the submitted artwork and exhibited at this year's ESE Symposium on September 29, 2016.

We live in an era in which ideologies often seem diametrically opposed and common ground is frequently elusive. The origins of polarization and the evolution of extreme thought and action in the environment, technology, and our society will be explored and shared at this interdisciplinary event. We will provide a space where you can share your artwork on extreme and/or radical ideas, promoting the discussion surrounding the relevance and implications of polarization to an open-minded, thoughtfully critical audience. This symposium intends to convey these messages both visually and orally to strengthen communication in a world where ideas are easily lost in a sea of information.

This is a call to all artists (regardless of age or affiliation with Purdue University) to submit applications for entry by September 25, 2016, at 11:59 pm with a paragraph describing their intended work, its relation to the theme, and logistical requirements for its display (see submission form). Original works conceived in response to the theme of the symposium will be preferred. Artists may submit up to three applications, but please be aware that we seek to include a diversity of artists. Artists will be informed about the acceptance of their work by September 20, 2016. Application submission reflects a commitment on the part of the artist to display their work at the 2016 ESE Symposium if selected. Artists will be responsible for the installation and removal of their works in the morning and evening, respectively, of the symposium day. We will consider digital samples of past works (picture, audio, or video files), but please do NOT submit any physical artwork with your application. The symposium will take place on Thursday, September 29, 2016, and the selected artwork will be displayed during the entire day in the atrium of Mann Hall, Purdue University, as part of the symposium.  An award for the top submission based on attendee’s ballots will be presented at the conclusion of the symposium.