YSU Launch Lab
Where Imagination Meets Reality
Imagination In Action–Unlikely Partnership Between the Arts, Business and Engineering
About the Interdisciplinary Collaboration
Youngstown State University Launch Lab is holding an imagination “pour party” on Monday, April 24, 2017 at 2:00 pm. The Launch Lab is the outgrowth of a collaborative effort between the Colleges of Creative Arts and Communication (CCAC), Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM), and the Williamson College of Business Administration (WCBA) to bring the strengths of all these programs together for a learning experience that is more than the sum of its constituents. The partnership between CCAC & STEM has enabled senior art major Daniel Newman’s vision of a large parakeet head to be brought to life. Multi-departmental collaborations not only enhance the YSU student’s learning experiences, but it is also facilitating the realization of Daniel’s vision.
The interdisciplinary partnership was made possible by faculty representation consisting of Greg Moring (CCAC), Brian Vuksanovich (STEM), and Joseph Angelo (WCBA). Members of the faculty team have been working on the Launch Lab concept since 2008 to enhance student learning experiences through innovative practices and shared technology via YSU’s unique multi-disciplinary approach.
Newman’s imagination was ignited during the fall semester when he witnessed a group of engineering students participating in a aluminum pour in a 3D printed sand mold, “I have seen a fair amount of bronze and aluminum casting done with the traditional lost wax method. This method of aluminum casting seemed much more efficient and offered the chance to work in collaboration with other students and professionals, which is of great interest to me.” Newman was already in the process of sculpting a large parakeet head which drew the attention of students and faculty members and lead to his collaboration.
The artwork is symbolic to Newman who utilizes the parakeet imagery to articulate his perception on how religion has evolved over time. A variety of Newman’s artwork can be seen on display at YSU’s Todd Hall.
The imagination “pour party” (i.e. molten aluminum casting) will take place at Youngstown State University in Bliss Hall room B09 at 2:00 p.m. Monday April 24, 2017.
About the Launch Lab
The YSU Launch Lab is an innovation resource for the university and the region. This is accomplished by promoting the advancement of creative learning and research in an interdisciplinary, collaborative, environment. YSU Launch Lab provides a unique learning space that exposes students and faculty from all areas of study to innovative thinking, inspired design, advanced manufacturing and entrepreneurial commercialization. See https://cms.ysu.edu/launch-lab/launch-lab for further detail.
If you would like more information or to speak with Mr. Angelo, please call 330-941-7149 or send an email to jfangelo@ysu.edu (preferred).