Meet Lauren Wright Vartanian
Lauren works as a Artist/Science Communicator, at the Neurons and Nebulas, where she writes science themed alphabet books, that each page explores learning in a fun new way.
Meet Lauren, a Bachelor of Fine Arts, Drawing and Painting, OCAD University, 2006. Advanced Visual Arts Certificate, OCADU, Florence Italy, 2007. Advanced Diploma program, Dental Technology, George Brown College, 2012. Lauren blends Art with a more interesting way to learn while still making it fun. Past the artist side Lauren enjoys stargazing with her telescope, and watching sci-fi movies.
When did your love of STEM begin?
I have always had a passion for science and learning more. I grew up watching Bill Nye and watched Magic School Bus when I was well beyond the recommended age group. I remember keeping a self initiated, tabbed science binder with sections about my interests (then; dinosaurs, whales and space) complete with notes, magazine clippings and appropriate elementary school science units. In my late teens and 20s I was very interested in anatomy and had wanted to become a medical illustrator. I made it my mission later in life to have my art work published somehow. What started as single anatomic heart brooch for a friend’s music video, became a love affair with sewing and turned out to be the missing link in how to combine my passions for art and science. In 2015, I began making artwork under the name Neurons and Nebulas. From 2020-2024, I illustrated a science themed alphabet book entirely out of textiles. It was picked up and Published by Firefly Books– Stitching Science.
What is the best part about working in the field of STEM?
I fall more under the category of STEAM, combining art and science as a form of Science Communication. I love being able to teach people of all ages about fun and interesting scientific concepts. People light up when they see my work, and become so excited to see their field or interest represented in art. I truly see my art as my brand of science communication. I also like to educate people on how science and art intersect. My pieces are like textbook illustrations recreated in fabric. My work hangs in the offices of professors and medical professionals and my brooches have been worn as badges of awareness. My book is now in schools and public libraries and I was told recently that it was referenced in a few grade 6 bibliographies– a fun little fact that brings me extreme joy!
What advice would you give young women interested in a career in STEM?
Follow your passion and don’t be afraid to be yourself. People pick up on and recognize your excitement and dedication to what you love. Chances are if you find it intriguing and put your genuine interest into creating something, then that enthusiasm will spread and grow in others.
Tell us a fun fact about you and your current role!
The original artwork for Stitching Science has been on tour since the book was ready to launch. At the time of writing this, it is currently on display at the McDonald Institute for astroparticle physics research, at Queens University. It has a spot in the visitor’s center between a cloud chamber and a Nobel prize! Later this year it will be displayed at the Perimeter Institute in Waterloo.