Painting Science Stories

Jill Pelto, an artist and science communicator, will speak about using her paintings to share complex science stories to unique audiences. She incorporates scientific data directly into her paintings in ways that aim to be emotionally relevant and thought-provoking. Jill’s art work builds on and bridges her academic training in both art and science, which she uses to collaborate on interdisciplinary projects. She will speak about some of her recent work, such as making paintings about watersheds supported by Washington State's glaciers, working with a science team to make art about their detailed studies of changing Arctic Sea ice, and developing an exhibit about the resilience of people and ecosystems in the Appalachian Mountains of North Carolina.

Visit go.umd.edu/lovedata to learn more about sessions and activities offered during Love Data Week 2026.