A study project combining chemistry and art might deal with topics such as the impact of acid rain on outdoor statues. Artists must keep in mind which materials will create the desired effect after a certain amount of acid rain. In cases where the artist wants to work completely free of acid rain, materials are available that will not change after periods of exposure to acid rain.
The HYLE-International Journal for Philosophy of Chemistry offers an issue devoted to the virtual art exhibition. In this issue, artists show their interpretations of chemistry through a variety of media. The purpose is to show examples of chemistry in art.
Some artists use chemical reactions as part of their art. One theme might center on the chemical reactions of rotting food. In addition, a fog machine offers a simple example of chemistry through its change of liquid to smoke or steam.
The preparation of colors for artwork requires chemistry. Mixing the wrong shades could achieve undesired colors in addition to the waste of materials. Chemistry also shows how using a combination of paint types, such as watercolor and oil, could result in problems creating the work.