Meet Samantha: Jewish Conceptual Artist of the Week

Samantha Lish blends the world of art and science on a daily basis. A theoretical physicist in training, Samantha is also a conceptual artist who uses a variety of mediums and materials to bring her art to life. On the weekends, she enjoys taking long Shabbat walks and contemplating the universe. Learn more about Samantha and check out her art in this week’s 1:1 interview! 

Rachel: What brought you to DC and what made you stay?

Samantha: I moved to DC at the start of my PhD training through the NIH OxCam program and have been charmed by the area ever since! 

Rachel: I know this is the most DC question, but what do you do and how did you get into that?

Samantha: I am a conceptual artist and theoretical physicist (in training). A desire to understand the relationship between natural laws and humanity’s ability to uncover universal truths has informed my belief that problem-solving requires interdisciplinary thinking. 

I believe innovation is related to worldview; choosing to see interconnections between disciplines is an integral part of moving any one field forward. To me, art and science converge on the principle of discovery. Both relentlessly ask questions, and challenge society to move forward. 

This way of thinking led me to my research focus which utilizes mathematics and quantum mechanics to uncover properties about cell geometry, and my artwork focus which relies on the dynamic interplay between nature and humanity’s creative interference. 

In sum, I study emergent patterns that arise from an amalgam of parts. You can find my artwork on Etsy and on Insta @lish.lab! 

Rachel: Describe your dream day in the DMV from start to finish. 

Samantha: My dream day would include waking up to chirping birds and streaks of sunlight through my window. With a coffee and book in hand, I’d meander through DC’s historic streets and enjoy the sights. I love to sit and contemplate the universe and our incredible color book world. 

Rachel: What do you do to relax or for fun at the end of a long week?

Samantha: I gather Jewish, scientific, and art-related reading materials to pour over. And I love taking long walks on Shabbos. 

Rachel: When Jews of DC Gather…

Samantha: …they talk shop. 

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