Flow visualization is the process of making the physics of fluid flows (gases, liquids) visible.
At the University of Colorado we have a course for mixed teams of engineering and fine arts photography and video students. In this course, we explore a range of techniques for creating images of fluid flows. Our work is motivated not just by the utility and importance of fluid flows, but also by their inherent beauty.
Flow visualization is for everybody: if you have paid attention to the patterns while stirring milk into coffee or stared at the curl of a rising tendril of smoke you have participated in flow visualization. Art and science are similar in that they both thrive on deep seeing, on expanded perception and attention, which can be gained through simple experience. Everyone is capable of this. Spend some time noticing flow visualization around you and you’ll find your life is richer.
A complete catalogue of student work is published at Flowvis.org, including lecture notes and other information related to flow visualization.
Instructor: Jean Hertzberg, associate professor
Course number: MCEN 4151/5151, FILM 4200, ARTF 5200, ATLS 4519/5519
Description: Explores techniques for the visualization of the physics of fluid flows including seeding with dyes, particles and bubbles, and shadowgraphy and schlieren. Reviews optics and fluid physics, especially atmospheric clouds. Assignments are student-driven, to individuals and mixed teams of graduates, undergraduates, engineering majors and photography/video majors.
