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Molecules That Matter
18 August 2008–9 January 2009
10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., Monday–Friday
Clifford C. Hach Gallery

Admission is free. Kindly note that the exhibit's closing date has been changed to 9 January.
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Molecules That Matter showcases 10 organic molecules that profoundly altered our world: aspirin, isooctane, penicillin, polyethylene, nylon, DNA, progestin, DDT, Prozac, and buckminsterfullerene. The exhibit connects each molecule to one decade of the 20th century.

Using large-scale models, contemporary art, and a range of historical objects and documents, Molecules That Matter aims to stimulate our awareness of the impact molecular science has on us all, individually and as a society. Each molecule is explored with an evocative array of related cultural artifacts and artworks, while three scientifically accurate models of the chemical structures—at 2.5 billion times actual size—are suspended from the gallery’s ceiling.

Work by the following artists is included in the exhibit: Susie Brandt, Chrissy Conant, Bryan Crockett, Robert Dawson, Melissa Gwyn, Frank Moore, Michael Oatman, Roxy Paine, Dan Peterman, Edward Ruscha, and Fred Tomaselli.

Molecules That Matter was organized in partnership with the Frances Young Tang Teaching Museum and Art Gallery at Skidmore College. A board of 10 chemists from higher education, industry, and CHF selected the molecules, with a final review by two Nobel laureates in chemistry.

Attend the Molecules That Matter lecture series at CHF
In conjunction with this exhibit, CHF is hosting a series of five lectures throughout fall 2008. Five speakers—all leaders in their fields—will address the science in everyday experiences and the promise and peril of discovery and innovation. Following each lecture, guests will have the opportunity to view the Molecules That Matter exhibit and tour the new museum at CHF. 

Learn more about the lectures and speakers, and register to attend today!

Additional information and resources

• Molecules That Matter may be available for additional venues in 2010. Please contact John Weber, Frances Young Tang Teaching Museum, if you are interested in hosting this exhibit.

• View the exhibition page on the Tang Web site.

• View the special Web presentation on the Tang Web site.