At the center of Stanford University's new Computing and Data Science (CoDa) building, an innovative art installation called "Fathom" stands out. Comprising five triangular glass panels, the installation not only catches and reflects natural light during the day but also comes to life with computer-generated animations after dark. These animations, triggered by motion sensors, respond to the movements of people passing through the building, creating a dynamic and interactive experience. Camille Utterback, an installation artist and associate professor of art and art history at Stanford, is the brainchild behind "Fathom." She collaborated with independent creative technologist Charlotte McElwain to develop the custom software that drives the artwork's responsive elements. Utterback's installation aims to bridge the gap between the digital and physical worlds, encouraging viewers to contemplate the complexity of the material universe in comparison to the often flat and static nature of digital screens. Each of the five panels represents a unique aspect of encoded data, showcasing the intricate layers of history and technology. During the day, sunlight filters through the hand-painted and etched glass, revealing a spectrum of colors and textures. At night, the panels transform into animated displays, revealing hidden layers of imagery and inviting deeper engagement. Utterback emphasizes that the shifting light and textures serve as a metaphor for the process of understanding, suggesting that true comprehension requires time, engagement, and a holistic approach. Since the initial installation in January, Utterback has been refining the animations to ensure they are both legible and engaging, whether viewed up close inside the building or from a distance on Jane Stanford Way. The projections are visible daily from sunset to midnight, offering a continually evolving experience for passersby and those within the CoDa building. Deborah Cullinan, Stanford's vice president for the arts, highlights the significance of integrating art into the university's environment. She notes that "Fathom" was chosen by the Public Art Committee for its bold integration into the architectural design and its representation of the diverse cultural and technical histories that inform Stanford's research and community. The installation is a gift from Sky and Arwen Dayton, supporters of interdisciplinary projects at the university. The selection of "Fathom" aligns with Stanford's broader goals of fostering interdisciplinary innovation and blending art with emerging technologies. The university has multiple programs under the Stanford Arts umbrella, aimed at enriching the academic and communal experience. The Public Art Committee, co-chaired by Cullinan and David Lenox, the university architect, worked closely with CoDa faculty to ensure that the chosen artwork resonated with the building's focus on data science and computer science. Utterback's installation serves as more than just a visual spectacle; it is a teaching tool. In the future, she plans to offer studio art courses where students can create new animations for some of the triangles. The curriculum will cover the creation of dynamically generated animations, the use of live data, and the integration of research from various campus sources. This hands-on approach will enable students to explore the artistic and technical possibilities of digital media, further reinforcing the interdisciplinary spirit at Stanford. One of the most exciting aspects of "Fathom" is its ongoing evolution. Utterback has secured a Humanities Seed Grant, along with McElwain and Professor Risa Weschler, to develop new animations for the "Models of the Universe" panel. These animations will be based on live astronomical data streaming from the Legacy Survey of Space and Time (LSST), which is expected to go online this fall. The project promises to bring cutting-edge scientific discoveries to life through the medium of art, making complex data accessible and engaging for a broader audience. Industry insiders praise "Fathom" for its blend of artistic and technological innovation. They see it as a prime example of how art can enhance the educational environment and inspire new forms of interdisciplinary research. The collaboration between Utterback, McElwain, and Stanford faculty underscores the university's commitment to pushing the boundaries of both art and science. By creating a platform for ongoing explorations and student involvement, "Fathom" exemplifies the intersection of creativity, technology, and education that defines Stanford's CoDa building. Stanford University, known for its pioneering research and interdisciplinary programs, continues to set a high standard for integrating the arts and sciences. The CoDa building, with its cutting-edge facilities and vibrant installations like "Fathom," stands as a testament to the university's vision of a holistic and integrated learning environment. Utterback's work not only adds aesthetic value but also serves as a constant reminder of the multifaceted nature of data and its profound impact on our world.