Art installation: The Fragile Lens - a suspended narrative of science and illumination
This activity is part of the Royal Society's Summer Science Exhibition 2026.
Experience a new art piece created by artist and Associate Professor at Kingston University London, Dr Fran Arrigoni-Halliday.
The Fragile Lens is a chandelier that features imagery drawn from mostly microscopic sources, predominantly historical images from the landmark science publication Micrographia.
In 1665 Micrographia, written and illustrated by Robert Hooke with 38 lavish copperplate engravings, was published by the Royal Society. It was the Society’s first major publication and remains a key moment in the history of microscopy. In it, Hooke describes how he used his microscope to discover the structure of rocks, plants and, most famously, insects.
The Fragile Lens reflects the legacy of the Royal Society and the Enlightenment, reminding us of the scientific method that inspired non-scientists to embrace the curiosity promoted by microscopy.
Attending the event
This event will be held in City of London 3 at the Royal Society from Tuesday 30 June – Sunday 5 July 2026.
- Free to attend as part of the Summer Science Exhibition
- Eventbrite tickets for Summer Science Exhibition are recommended, with only a limited number of walk up tickets released on the day
- Suitable for all ages
- Travel and accessibility information and details on planning your visit - contact us directly to arrange any specific accessibility requirements
- Food and drink will be available for purchase at our onsite café
For all enquiries, please email us.