The faculties of Science and Arts are collaborating to introduce a new theatre and performance course specifically designed for Science students. Despite the common belief that art and science reside on opposite ends of the left- and right-brain spectrum, history reveals numerous examples of individuals excelling in both domains. Renowned figures such as Leonardo da Vinci, celebrated for his artistry, were also accomplished scientists and inventors. In contemporary times, individuals like Brian May, the lead guitarist of the rock band Queen with a PhD in astrophysics, and actresses Natalie Portman (Black Swan) and Lisa Kudrow (Friends), who have contributed to scientific research, further demonstrate the intersectionality between art and science.

Alumni from the University of Waterloo, such as Azeezat Adeyoyin Oyawoye (BSc ’21), exemplify this multidimensional talent. Known as Àbíkẹ́ The Artist on Instagram, Oyawoye has established herself as a visual artist while concurrently working as a project manager at Huge, a creative consulting agency catering to various clients including McDonald’s, Google, Pantone, and Lego.

In today’s technology-driven world, it’s increasingly common for employers to seek individuals who possess both technical expertise and creative thinking skills. As the demand for STEM graduates continues to rise, there’s a growing recognition of the importance of incorporating arts into STEM education. This integration aims to foster diversity of thought by attracting students from various backgrounds to engage in STEM learning.

Waterloo has a long-standing reputation for approaching challenges in unconventional ways. Our faculty, students, and alumni collaborate effectively to break down barriers and develop innovative solutions across disciplines. Building upon this strength, the Faculty of Science at Waterloo is committed to ensuring that students graduate with the ability to think creatively and approach their work with passion, purpose, and an innovative mindset.

To meet these objectives, the faculty has launched the Science Meets Art (SMArt) initiative. This initiative is designed to empower students to reach their full potential by providing opportunities to explore interests in areas such as painting, graphic design, music, and acting. Through SMArt, science students can collaborate with their peers to unleash their creative potential and enhance their overall learning experience.

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