If we had full control over every little thing, we could figure out what would happen every time we tweak just one bit. This is the strategy some of us use to make rational decisions. It is also the basis of a lot of experimental science.

The scientists that inhabit experimental labs know only too well the pitfalls of assuming you can make all else equal in order to solve a question. The results are often disappointing: nothing goes as planned. Yet scientists get out of bed every morning and repeat their experiments again and again, leading to more disappointing than informative data.

“All Other Things Being Equal...” is an artist’s attempt at appropriating the scientific process observed in the lab. Focusing on the repetitive practice of the scientists, and the resulting accumulation of detritus, it questions whether when we know we might fail, shouldn’t we just stay in bed?

The exhibition includes an idealized scientist’s workspace complete with experimental set-up. It presents insights into the scientists’ mind, as the artist works to understand what makes them get up in the morning and repeat what is usually a disappointing day. Ultimately, the findings might shed light on what drives us all.

ARTIST BIOGRAPHY

Isabelle Desjeux is a scientist and an artist, having attained both a PhD in Molecular Biology and a Masters in Fine Arts. Using her intimate knowledge of the scientific method, she studies scientific objects usually forgotten by the microscopic gaze. This has led her to questioning the objectivity of science, which is perhaps not surprising given that science is made by people.

BACKGROUND OF FSNGA 2011

Isabelle Desjeux attained the title of the Winner of 3rd France + Singapore New Generation Artists (FSNGA) 2011, an annual visual art competition and exhibition organised by Alliance Française de Singapour. FSNGA aims to feature new generation visual artists from France and Singapore and to provide a platform which introduces the creative potential of these upcoming artists from both countries to its international audience, hence creating awareness of the experimental and emerging styles in art and contributing in shaping the landscape of the art scene. It is also organised to promote exchange of artistic knowledge, experiences and ideas between the new generation artists from France and Singapore.