The intersection of astrophysics and artistic expression is explored in "Conjuring the Void: The Art of Black Holes," a book showcasing artwork inspired by these celestial phenomena. Lynn Gamwell, author and former director of the New York Academy of Sciences Gallery of Art and Science, presented her research on the subject at Harvard University's Black Hole Initiative conference several years ago, which served as the genesis for the book. Gamwell, whose background includes extensive writing on the connections between mathematics, art, and science, noted the surprising prevalence of black hole-inspired art across various cultures.

"I was just astounded at how much art there is about black holes," Gamwell told Ars. She also expressed particular interest in Asian art, observing, "There's just something about the concept of a black hole that resonates with the Eastern tradition." The book delves into themes such as the science of black holes, the concept of the void, and nothingness, as interpreted by artists globally.

Black holes, once considered purely theoretical, have increasingly captured the public imagination and inspired artistic creation. Gamwell's decade-long experience at the New York Academy of Sciences Gallery of Art and Science provided her with a unique perspective on the interplay between scientific concepts and artistic interpretation. Her presentation at the Black Hole Initiative, an interdisciplinary program at Harvard, highlighted the growing interest in the cultural and philosophical implications of black holes. The book offers a visual journey through diverse artistic representations of these enigmatic cosmic entities, reflecting a global fascination with the unknown.