Visual Science of Art Conference 2026
Vision Forward: Perception, Art & Technology
The Visual Science of Art Conference (VSAC) 2026 brings together designers, scientists, artists, engineers, and innovators to explore how visual perception and artistic practice intersect to shape human experience and interaction with the world. The conference examines how insights from perception and art advance our understanding of visual experience and inform creative practice, scientific inquiry, and the development of intuitive and effective technologies. Hosted by the Department of Engineering at King’s College London, UK from August 20–22, 2026, this year’s event highlights design as a critical interface between humans, complex systems, and technologies, showing how artistic and aesthetic approaches can help us understand, model, and enhance perceptual processes.
Conference Program
Preliminary programme is now available!
Keynote speakers
Alan Blackwell
Alan Blackwell is Professor of Interdisciplinary Design in the Cambridge Department of Computer Science and Technology. Following an early career as an AI engineer, responsible for the design of novel user interfaces and programming languages, he completed a PhD in cognitive neuroscience, investigating the topic of Metaphor in Diagrams. His subsequent research interests have included computational arts (including music notation and perception, choreography, and live coding), and the role of notation in wide range of technical, craft and design practices. In addition to these areas of critical technical practice, he applies methods from STS and Anthropology for intercultural perspectives on design, computation and AI, as described in his recent book Moral Codes: Designing Alternatives to AI. We are proud to announce that Professor Alan Blackwell will be joining VSAC 2026 as a keynote speaker at King’s College London. Professor Blackwell is Professor of Interdisciplinary Design in the Cambridge Department of Computer Science and Technology. His work spans AI, cognitive neuroscience, computational arts, and critical perspectives on design and technology. He is also the author of Moral Codes: Designing Alternatives to AI. Bringing together design, computation, creativity, and anthropology, his research offers a distinctive perspective on the relationship between technology, culture, and human experience. We are delighted to welcome Professor Blackwell to VSAC 2026 and look forward to his keynote lecture🌿
Semir Zeki
We are proud to announce that Professor Semir Zeki will be joining VSAC 2026 as a keynote speaker. This marks a significant highlight of this year’s programme, and we are honoured to welcome him to the conference at King’s College London. Professor Zeki is a Fellow of the Royal Society and a Founder Fellow of the Academy of Medical Sciences. His pioneering research has shaped our understanding of visual perception, aesthetic experience, and the brain’s role in acquiring knowledge. Widely recognised for his influential work in visual science and neuroaesthetics, he has helped redefine how we think about the relationship between perception, art, and beauty. His keynote at VSAC 2026 will explore how the brain gives rise to aesthetic experience, making him a distinguished and fitting speaker for the conference. We are delighted to host this distinguished lecture as part of VSAC 2026🌟
Become a Sponsor
The Visual Science of Art Conference (VSAC) is a unique platform fostering collaboration between artists and visual scientists. While the organization is entirely volunteer-driven, securing funding is essential to cover the conference’s operational costs and ensure its success.
At VSAC, we believe that the heart of a great conference lies in its people. That’s why funding primarily supports:
- Artist Waivers: making the conference accessible to the selected artists presenting of high quality work.
- Inspiring Keynote Speakers: attracting experts in their field to enrich the conference experience.
- Artist Travel Awards: providing financial assistance to selected artists, enabling them to participate and contribute meaningfully to VSAC.
To achieve these goals, we are actively seeking sponsors — both organizations and individuals — who share our vision of bridging the worlds of art and science. Your support could make a lasting impact!