Synapses
Since 2012, our lab has been engaged in a unique interdisciplinary collaboration with visual artist Serena Scapagnini.
The SYNAPSES project explores the neural basis of memory and consciousness through the integration of two-photon fluorescence microscopy and artistic interpretation. This collaboration represents a novel approach to science communication and demonstrates how laboratory techniques can inform artistic practice while making neuroscience accessible to broader audiences.
About Serena Scapagnini
Serena Scapagnini is an Italian visual artist and art historian based in Rome and New Haven. She holds degrees in Art Theory, Semiotics, and Medieval Art History from La Sapienza University and the University of Siena, with art training at Université Paris VIII and an MFA from the School of Visual Arts in New York. A Young Fellow of the World Academy of Art and Science, her work has been exhibited internationally across the United States, China, India, Sweden, Hungary, Spain, and Italy.
Scapagnini creates multi-layered works on handmade paper incorporating copper, colloidal gold, and organic materials. Her installations combine painting, drawing, video art, and spatial compositions to explore the visual language of neural networks and quantum phenomena.
Media coverage & interviews
The SYNAPSES collaboration has attracted significant attention from scientific and cultural media, highlighting the intersection of neuroscience and art.
SYNAPSES
In-depth interview about the twelve-year study of mind and memory mechanisms in collaboration with the Higley Lab, including technical details about the two-photon imaging process and artistic methodology.
The shape of thoughts
Moderator Florian Carle, from the Yale Quantum Institute, leads a discussion between Serena and Michael exploring their collaboration and shared research, through ten years of brain images, reflections, and works of art. Hosted by Yale's Wu Tsai Institute.
Entangled expressions: where quantum science and art come together
Host Andrew Glester explores the Yale Quantum Institute’s artist-in-residence program, featuring Scapagnini discussing her neuroscience work with the Higley Lab and quantum research collaboration. The episode examines how she bridges science and emotion through visualization. (Photo credit Filippo Silvestris)
Serena Scapagnini – the space beyond
U.S. premiere at Yale’s International Festival of Arts & Ideas, featuring extensive footage of the collaboration including conversations between Scapagnini, Michael Higley, and quantum researchers. The documentary includes laboratory scenes and explores the parallels between neural memory and quantum phenomena.
