AN EXHIBITION exploring a world where art and science collide is coming to the North-East via Japan.

The Metabolon: Changing Perceptions tour is an art installation created by Japanese contemporary artist Seiko Kinoshita and scientist Dr Nate Adams of the molecular biology and biotechnology department at the University of Sheffield.

Large mixed media installations explore the nano-world invisible to the naked eye that Dr Adams researches in the lab in a bid to change perceptions that science and art are incompatible subjects.

The exhibition will run in the Hartlepool Art Gallery, Church Square, from January 19 until March 16.

“Science is based on imagination," said Dr Adams.

"Researchers develop virtual or cartoon representations of their work in their mind’s eye, which makes art the perfect way to share these visions with other people. The exhibition is based on this concept.

"We’ve taken our research into some of the most fundamental chemical processes that sustain life on Earth and used art to demonstrate new insights into how these processes work."

During the exhibition, a series of free art and science workshops will be on offer for North-East schools and families.