Last spring, Cam Fox '26 and Tom Dailey '26 were sent to New York City to represent MECA&D at the Biodesign Challenge, an international education program for high school and college students that introduces the intersection of biotechnology, art, and design.
At the summit, Cam and Tom presented their project, Eat Dirt, which investigated whether humans could consume nutrients through transdermal absorption using dirt or compost as a source. They presented their project on the main stage at Parsons School of Design to leading scientists and students from around the globe; participated in an exhibition; explored the galleries around the city; and spent a day at MoMA for presentations and viewing the exhibitions. While at the summit, Cam and Tom also had the opportunity to network with their biodesign peers.
At a talk at the Joanne Waxman Library, the pair reflected on their experience and discussed the newfound confidence they felt after presenting their project as artists. Both left the summit feeling like the chance to explore art in a new environment opened their eyes to the possibilities of their practice, the materials they use, and the spaces they feel comfortable in.
Megan Valanidas teaches the Biodesign course which is going on its second year at MECA&D. Through a partnership with Artists at Work, the school plans to send another team of student’s to this year’s Biodesign challenge in New York City this spring.