Carlos Briones on the Deep Connection Between Science and Art

Biochemist Carlos Briones, from the Centro de Astrobiología in Madrid (CSIC-INTA), discusses the intrinsic link between science and art in an interview. He argues that both fields share a foundation in observation, experimentation, and trial-and-error. Briones, also a musician and poet, emphasizes that culture is a sum, not fragmentation, and advocates for a 'third culture' that bridges scientific and humanistic disciplines. His latest book, 'A bordo de tu curiosidad', explores this theme. He cites influences like Hans Magnus Enzensberger, Primo Levi, and Italo Calvino. Briones believes art, with its intentionality and metaphor-making, is the best way to communicate with extraterrestrial civilizations, referencing the film 'Arrival'. He sees life as relational and temporal, akin to art, where each work inherits from the past and inspires the future. His favorite painting is Bosch's 'Garden of Earthly Delights' at the Museo Nacional del Prado.