AN EXHIBITION exploring scientific concepts through arts was placed under the spotlight last night (Thursday, July 19).

Delegates from around the globe converged on the Lumley Castle Hotel, near Chester-le-Street, County Durham, for Invisible Art organised by the ITN Invisibles - the research European network working on neutrinos and dark matter.

The network includes scientists at Durham University and 11 European institutions, as well as 15 associate partners such as CERN, Tokyo University, Harvard University.

The Invisibles Art Group, comprises several North-East artists, including Steve Sproates, Chrissie Morgan, Bruce Burn, Bill Harris, Dawn Douglas, Michael Grogan, Angela Sandwith, Maggie Parker.

Collaborating with scientists of the ITN Invisibles, they produced original art pieces focussing on the science of neutrinos, the most elusive known fundamental particles, as well as mysterious dark matter and dark energy - whose origin is the most compelling question in cosmology.

The exhibition comprised paintings, sculptures, video installations.

The event was opened by Professor Sir Arnold Wolfendale FRS, who discussed the connection between art and science.

The scientists and artists involved were present to discuss questions about the science involved and how art can help in expressing highly-abstract scientific concepts.