Art and Science at the Field Museum

Emily and Peggy McNamara discuss their shared passion for art and its connection to science. Peggy, the Field Museum's artist in residence, shares her artistic journey and techniques, emphasizing the importance of time, observation, and correction in art. They explore painting methods, color theory, and the role of instincts in art. The conversation highlights the beauty of birds and encourages artistic freedom and expression, stressing that talent can be developed through practice and experimentation.

What inspired Emily to get involved with Natural History Museums?

• A fascination with science

• A family tradition

• Her internship for art credits

• A love for animals

Why did Peggy initially come to the Field Museum?

• To work with scientists

• To teach art classes

• To find inspiration in still objects

• To study birds

How does Peggy describe her drawing method?

• Focused on abstract forms

• Meticulous and time-consuming

• Quick and spontaneous

• Based on strict rules

What does Peggy consider the most important tool in art?

• A paintbrush

• A pencil

• An eraser

• A canvas

What does Peggy say about making mistakes in art?

• Mistakes are a natural part of the creative process

• Mistakes ruin the artwork

• Mistakes are only for beginners

• Mistakes should be avoided at all costs

What is Peggy's approach to using colors in her paintings?

• She uses only primary colors

• She sticks to monochrome palettes

• She includes a variety of colors to avoid leaving any out

• She avoids using complementary colors

What technique does Emily mention that involves using different values of color?

• Cubism

• Pointillism

• Impressionism

• Sfumato

What does Peggy think about the colors of birds?

• They are always harmonious

• They are surprising and fun

• They are predictable

• They are dull and uninteresting

What does Peggy believe about the nature of talent in art?

• Talent is often unawakened and can be nurtured

• Only a few people are truly talented

• Talent is innate and cannot be developed

• Talent is irrelevant in art

What is Peggy's view on the finality of art?

• Art is only final when displayed

• Art should never be altered

• Art can always be revisited and changed

• Art is always final once completed