JCE Classroom Activity #110: Artistic Anthocyanins and Acid–Base Chemistry

Art and science are sometimes viewed as opposing subjects, but are united in many ways. With an increased awareness of the benefits of interdisciplinary studies in education, it is desirable to show students how different subjects impact one another. Visual arts are greatly connected to chemistry in several ways. Pigments are usually synthetically produced to conjure all the colors of the rainbow for creating many great masterpieces. However, these hues were originally derived from naturally occurring minerals and plants. Students can still paint a "green" or environmentally friendly picture, using colors obtained without synthesis. The fun procedure outlined here illustrates how red cabbage juice, along with other types of produce, can be used to prepare an inexpensive canvas that can be transformed into works of art while using acids and bases to modify the chemical structure of the anthocyanin pigment within the produce. Using this hands-on classroom activity, students will understand the benefits of using natural pigments, investigate how colors can be manipulated, make color gradients, and explore how using different media can affect an individual's artwork. Importantly, students will also develop understanding of the interconnection between science and art.