Current Scientific Perspectives

Reductionist science often argues that while we may observe intriguing components that appear "designed" within the universe, these phenomena arise purely from random chance. It posits that there is no inherent meaning or purpose in our world or human life.

This perspective can, albeit unintentionally, diminish the significance of human existence. Christopher Hitchens candidly expressed this notion when he said, “I’m here as a product of a process of evolution, which doesn’t make very many exceptions. And which rates life relatively cheaply.”

To entirely dismiss the idea of inherent design, science maintains that observable discoveries cannot bridge different domains. For instance, consider the following definition of 'Scientific Reductionism' from Wikipedia:

> “While it is widely accepted that chemistry is grounded in physics, and molecular biology relies on chemistry, claims that sociology stems from psychology or that economics is based on sociology and psychology tend to be contentious.”

To reductionists, scientific fields remain isolated. How could they interrelate? If there is no intrinsic design, then there can be no inherent pattern.

But what about seemingly unrelated fields like Physics and Art?

The Intersection of Opposites

Physics is rooted in order and structure, while Art exists in the abstract and the subjective. One is primarily observable (natural physics) and the other is purely interpretive (the artistic). They engage different sides of the brain, leading many to believe they cannot share common threads.

Art, in its many forms—be it painting, sculpture, film, or drawing—embodies uniqueness. Preferences vary greatly; one might favor Monet over Pollock or Lichtenstein over Degas.

However, a consistent element runs through all forms of art: COLOR.

From painting to pottery to photography, color forms the essence of artistic expression. Even monochrome works rely on the same color spectrum. The fundamental aspect of all visible art is color, processed through the primary components of Red, Green, and Blue (RGB).

Exploring the Science of Color

Now, let's return to the tangible realm of science. In a manner akin to how artists utilize color, the universe is constructed around the atom. Everything you perceive and interact with, from the apple you ate to the chair you occupied, is composed of atomic particles. The combination of these particles defines whether a material is metal, wood, or plastic.

In this way, we might assert: COLOR serves as the foundational element for artists, while THE ATOM is the foundation for the universe.

What if the atomic and the artistic are interconnected? What if, at the most fundamental level of existence, you uncover design? Not mechanical or chemical design, but rather, the building block of all artistry (COLOR) aligned with the core of all matter (ATOMIC)?

Consider this excerpt regarding the QUARK, taken from a book on color theory:

> “It seemed the mysteries about the atom had all been uncovered. Then in 1963, American physicist Murray Gell-Mann discovered the quark, the basic unit of all atomic nuclei. Each quark is associated with a color: red, blue, or green. When combined, these quarks produce white light, revealing the source of color in the smallest atomic particle…”

As a graphic designer and owner of a branding agency, I engage with color daily. Whether capturing a selfie or photographing breathtaking landscapes, all images are processed in RGB. The beauty of visual art hinges on these three colors: red, green, and blue.

Now, let's examine both the RGB color spectrum and a representation of a baryon, the smallest known atomic particle.

The three colors that constitute the essence of art are also the same ones that create the fabric of physical existence.

Can you see the connection? At the core of everything created—from the vast universe to the majestic mountains to the oceans—and to you… lies ART.

Revisiting the Fundamental Question

Let’s return to that initial, seemingly outlandish question: "What if you are actually being ‘painted’ into a grand artistic masterpiece with as much intention as any master painter would apply to their favorite work of art?"

At the most fundamental level, even the smallest subatomic particles reveal art. This inquiry transcends mere metaphor; it suggests we could scientifically conclude that we are "designed" by a Master Painter. Even more astonishing, your seemingly random existence could be unfolding within a living painting.

Existential design may not be chaotic or without purpose. It may be more intricate and artistic than previously imagined. We have often been taught to prioritize science over philosophy, art, or religion, with the assertion that there is no cosmic purpose or inherent design in life, the universe, or history. Science may have inadvertently proven itself wrong.

While we might still question these concepts within religious and metaphysical contexts, scientifically, you can now embrace the idea of being a "living masterpiece."

Live inspired.