![science art comedy debate Event](https://mir-s3-cdn-cf.behance.net/project_modules/disp/b5871c22664995.56316e8c67a24.jpg)
Photo: Ben Swinnerton Photography
For National Science Week the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research tried something new - a sell-out comedy debate pitching their funniest (and bravest) scientists against professional comedians to argue if there is art in science. The debate aimed to engage the public with science in a fun way, particularly young men and women. Promotional materials for the event had to generate excitement and encourage ticket sales.
![science art comedy debate Event](https://mir-s3-cdn-cf.behance.net/project_modules/disp/9db38122664995.56316e8c6b2e1.jpg)
I sketched out stereotypes of art and science to see which had the clearest and most appealing potential for a general public audience looking to be entertained (and perhaps educated on the sly). My initial concept playing with the paradox of the Vitruvian man proved too visually busy, so I amped up the brightness and decided upon a simple but direct logotype with hand drawn flourishes.
![science art comedy debate Event](https://mir-s3-cdn-cf.behance.net/project_modules/disp/da818b22664995.56316e8c70cf5.jpg)
Promotional posters and postcards were distributed throughout inner city areas in cafes and on billboards. Regular posts on social media gradually built awareness and anticipation.
![science art comedy debate Event](https://mir-s3-cdn-cf.behance.net/project_modules/disp/14579622664995.56316e8c72820.gif)
Graphics during the event centred on the large format screen set behind the stage, which announced each speaker and played an animation to reinforce the argument being put forward.
![science art comedy debate Event](https://mir-s3-cdn-cf.behance.net/project_modules/disp/875b8b22664995.56316e8c75de1.jpg)
Photos: Ben Swinnerton photography
The debate was sold out, with over 50% of ticket buyers falling within the target audience. Audience members had a great time and rated the event highly in an exit survey.