Granular Perspectives

This science communication project connects art and science to increase public interest in granular materials, with a focus on sand. An interactive glass sculpture reveals how sand grains interact and influence both natural and engineered environments. Through visual, acoustic and tactile elements, the artwork makes invisible mechanical processes understandable and illustrates what happens beneath the surface. The initiative primarily addresses children aged 7 to 10 and young adults aged 16 to 19. A particular focus is on encouraging girls and young women to engage with engineering sciences. In addition, the project seeks to inspire researchers in geomechanics to develop similar initiatives for science communication. The project uses exhibitions, workshops, social media and presentations to share knowledge and spark curiosity. At its centre is the interactive glass sculpture, accompanied by workshops that invite participants to explore scientific ideas in a playful and accessible way. Expected outcomes include growing fascination among young people with soil mechanics and increased interest among girls and women in engineering. In the long term, this may help enhance diversity within the future engineering community. The project also aims to raise awareness of sand as a limited natural resource and to encourage reflection on its sustainable use in construction. At the same time, it promotes an open culture of science communication within the geomechanics community. The project is led by Gertraud Medicus (University of Innsbruck, Austria). The team includes artist Thomas Medicus and scientists Cino Viggiani (Université Grenoble Alpes, France), Edward Andò (EPFL, Lausanne, Switzerland) and Mehdi Pouragha (Carleton University, Ottawa, Canada). Together, they combine scientific experience and artistic creativity to open new perspectives on granular materials.