MIT’s Kavli Institute for Astrophysics and Space Research (MKI) is launching a pilot artist‑in‑residence program for the 2026‑27 academic year, creating a bridge between art, science and the public. Internationally acclaimed ultra‑contemporary artist Amy Karle will serve as the inaugural resident, working alongside MKI researchers to investigate the science and engineering behind cutting‑edge astrophysical discoveries and to translate that experience into an immersive multimedia installation slated for public display in early 2028.
Karle’s practice explores how science and technology shape humanity from cells to the cosmos. Her proposal treats astrophysical data as a co‑creative material, focusing on observation, signals and inference to foster an embodied understanding of cosmic phenomena. An interdisciplinary committee of astronomers, museum curators and art‑science practitioners selected the project, praising its “ambitious yet grounded engagement, audience‑centric design and unique art‑technology approach to science communication”.
The residency begins with a one‑month exploratory phase in the fall semester, during which Karle meets MKI researchers, attends seminars and gives a public presentation to the institute community. Throughout 2027 she will continue development, balancing independent studio work in California with ongoing collaboration with MIT scientists. In March 2028, Karle and selected scientific collaborators will reside at the Studios at MASS MoCA, testing ideas alongside 16 artists from around the world.
Funding comes from the Kavli Foundation’s Innovation Fund, aiming to forge new modes of public engagement with astrophysical research and deepen emotional connections between science and art. MKI Director Robert Simcoe notes, “The Kavli support lets us push boundaries and invite new audiences into the wonder of the universe and the process of science.”
Karle’s work has been shown at the Centre Pompidou, Mori Art Museum, the Smithsonian, MoMA, Ars Electronica, ArtScience Museum, Triennale Milano and the Victoria and Albert Museum, and she has collaborated with NASA, CERN, SLAC, Autodesk, HP Labs and NVIDIA. She was named one of BBC’s 100 Most Inspiring and Influential Women and served as a U.S. State Department Arts Incubator diplomat.
As the project matures, MKI will seek museum and festival partners to host the installation from 2028 onward.
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