A course in flow visualization: The art and physics of fluid flow

Abstract

In Spring 2003, a new experimental course on flow visualization was offered to a mixed class of Fine Arts Photography and Engineering students. Course content included fluid flow physics, history of photography with respect to the relationship of science and art, as well as flow visualization and photography techniques. Issues such as "What makes an image art? What makes an image scientific?" were addressed. The class focused on studio/laboratory experiences for mixed teams of students. A range of fluids apparatus were made available, and students also created novel flows. Writeups were required for each image (to the art students' shock). Student work was evaluated for both artistic and scientific merit. This course represents a radical departure from normal engineering curricula; typically all fine arts studio courses are specifically excluded. However, the course proved to be very successful in attracting both graduate and undergraduate students, engineering women in particular. One outcome of the course is the recognition by students of the beauty of fluid physics that surrounds us each day, leading to motivation for life-long learning.