At first glance, this artwork does not seem like it portrays elements of Organic Chemistry. But if this artwork is carefully analyzed and dissected, than many components related to this course will surface. First of all, this artwork mostly portrays the topic of enantiomers, specifically the compound called carvone, which has two configurations of (R) and (S). To clarify, enantiomers are compounds with the same molecular formula and structure, except they are mirrored images of each other, in other words, non-superimposable. (R) and (S)-carvone behave differently under certain conditions because of that characteristic. The differences between these two compounds are the usage, their synthesis but the most evident one is between their smell. (R)-carvone smells like mint while (S)-carvone smells like dill.
This artwork has the goal to show the audience that enantiomers are indeed unalike, most importantly, in their smell. Two liquid samples of both the enantiomers are placed inside separate treasure boxes each containing the leaves where the smell originates from. The objective behind having the actual compounds and not representing them by painting/drawing is to intrigue the interest of the audience more. The reason why treasure boxes are chosen for this project was to highlight the fact that discovering the truth about enantiomers is really important and "precious" to scientists. Moreover, to enhance the effect of a treasury burial, the hay foundation and fake flowers were created to support this idea. However, the hay and flowers were not used only for this reason, but it is to connect more to nature and biology. The leaves placed in each treasure boxes were to show the audience that the smell came from different sources.
The next focus point of the project was the big mirror placed between the treasure boxes. The purpose of the mirror is to act as a reminder that these two compounds are enantiomers. If one were to look at one side, for example (S)-carvone, the molecules of (S)-carvone would realistically be present because they are in the treasure box, while the molecules of (R)-carvone are present too, only in the mirror. The same concept goes for both side of the mirror. Also, the reason why the big mirror is made up of tiny separable mirrors is to symbolize the enantiomers. It shows that although enantiomers are made up of the same elements, have the same formula and look the same, they each contain their own individuality and "personality" that separates them from each other.
Minor details such as the picture frames and the decorations on them are also to underline the mirrored effect. The whole project was meant to be mirrored in every level because that is the whole point of the ESP project. Another minor detail such as the principle colour chosen for this project, was red. The colour red did not have any relevance to the enantiomers but was simply chosen because of the preference of the creator.
The use of these compounds in everyday life often depends on their smell. These compounds can be used in food, flavouring, aromatic products, cosmetics, hygienic products etc...For example, (S)-carvone is found in the spice dill, and it can be used to complement meals such as seafood or pasta. In addition, as fascinating as it might be, (S)-carvone can also be used to stop the premature growing during the storage of potatoes. Since (R)-carvone has a minty taste, it is often found in gum such as Wrigley's Gum, mouthwash, toothpaste, lip glosses etc...It can also help in repelling mosquitos. It is evident that the knowledge of Organic Chemistry takes on great importance in life. It will always be present in the world that we live in and we cannot survive without it. People often do not appreciate or pay attention to these minor things in life, but when one is interested in them, he/she will eventually discover the scientific beauty behind it.