Lynn Gamwell's book, "Conjuring the Void: The Art of Black Holes," showcases a wide array of artistic creations inspired by black holes, objects that have fascinated scientists and the public alike. Gamwell, who previously served as director of the New York Academy of Sciences Gallery of Art and Science, presented her research at the annual conference of Harvard's interdisciplinary Black Hole Initiative several years ago, which ultimately led to the creation of the book. "I was just astounded at how much art there is about black holes," Gamwell told Ars.

Gamwell's background in the intersection of mathematics, art, and science made her uniquely suited to explore this topic. Her research delves into the diverse ways artists across cultures have interpreted the scientific concept of black holes. The book examines how these celestial phenomena, once considered purely theoretical, have resonated with artists globally.

The concept of the void, central to the understanding of black holes, holds particular significance in Eastern traditions, according to Gamwell. "There's just something about the concept of a black hole that resonates with the Eastern tradition," she said, noting the thematic connections between the science of black holes, the void, and nothingness. This cross-cultural resonance highlights the universal appeal and interpretive flexibility of black holes as artistic subjects.