This talk and discussion was given at the Life Sciences department at the University of Warwick in the context of a project concerning research around Cyanobacteria. This microbe lies at the heart of the origins of life in the biosphere as one of the first organisms to photosynthesise and develop complex multicellular structures leading to the Great Oxidation. The talk explored how artists and scientists can create meaningful collaborations. The artist is not only a communicator or agent for the scientific research but through approaching the subject through an alternative creative lens can make discoveries, resolve problems and contribute to scientific knowledge.