The University of Rochester has announced the winners of its 2026 Ed and Barbara Hajim Art of Science Competition, recognizing the exceptional intersection of scientific concepts and artistic expression. Matthew Ahn ’28 secured both the First Place and People's Choice awards for his intricate ink illustration, titled "The Architecture of Knowledge." Majd Tabsi ’29 was also honored in the competition for their piece, "Strings of Life."
The annual competition, hosted by the University of Rochester, celebrates the creative synergy between scientific inquiry and artistic interpretation. This year's event saw a robust participation, with over 50 submissions from students, faculty, and staff across the institution, all vying to transform complex scientific ideas into compelling visual art.
Matthew Ahn's winning entry, "The Architecture of Knowledge," captivated judges and the public alike, earning him both the top position and the popular vote. For his dual victory, Ahn received a cash prize of $1,250. His artwork, along with other recognized pieces, will also be permanently displayed in the Carlson Library, offering ongoing inspiration to the university community.
Majd Tabsi ’29 was celebrated for their contribution, "Strings of Life," a unique string-based representation of DNA. This piece exemplifies the competition's goal of making scientific principles accessible and visually engaging through creative mediums.
The Ed and Barbara Hajim Art of Science Competition serves as a platform for individuals to explore and communicate scientific themes through artistic lenses. The results, announced this week, highlight the diverse talent within the University of Rochester and its commitment to fostering interdisciplinary understanding. The prizes for the competition included not only cash awards but also the prestigious opportunity for the artworks to be featured in a permanent exhibition, further cementing their place within the university's cultural and academic landscape.