YLEM, artists using science and technology records, 1971-2019, bulk 1981-2012

Summary

Creators:

Ylem (Organization) and Reagan, Trudy Myrrh

Abstract:

YLEM, Artists using science and technology, was an international networking organization of artists, scientists, authors, curators, educators, and art enthusiasts who explored the intersection of the arts and sciences.

Extent:

4.68 Linear Feet (13 manuscript boxes, 1 flat box)

Language:

English .

Background

Scope and content:

Includes directories, calendars, press releases, newsletters, YLEM journal, exhibit material, slides and photographs, administrative papers, clippings, flyers, videos, and CDs. Many papers also contain notes by Trudy Myrrh Reagan, and some directories and membership files have annotations by Eleanor Kent, the Director of Membership Development.

Biographical / historical:

Trudy Myrrh Reagan founded Ylem: Artists Using Science and Technology (YLEM starting in 2003) in 1981 after being inspired by her experiences with Stanford's Homebrew Computer Club and Graphics Gatherings. The goal was to connect individuals and organizations who utilized new science and technologies to create art. The organization took its name from the primordial substance from which the universe was formed after the Big Bang. Members got access to a directory, a newsletter, field trips, and a network of those involved in the field.

In 1984, YLEM became associated with Leonardo/ISAST, when Roger Malina brought the journal to California. Multiple members of ISAST served on the YLEM board, and members of YLEM published articles in Leonardo.

YLEM celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2001, bringing together previous and current members for the festivities.

Activity started to decline in the 2000s. Reagan retired from her role organizing the Forums in 2008, and the final issue of the YLEM Journal was published in 2009.

Acquisition information:

Gift of Trudy Myrrh Reagan, 1999, 2023. Transferred from the Art Library, 2008.

Rules or conventions:

Describing Archives: A Content Standard

Indexed terms

Subjects:

Art and technology

Names:

Reagan, Trudy Myrrh

Restrictions:

Collection is open for research, with the exception of born-digital materials, which are closed until processed. Please submit requests for material at least 36 hours in advance of use.

Terms of access:

While Special Collections is the owner of the physical and digital items, permission to examine collection materials is not an authorization to publish. These materials are made available for use in research, teaching, and private study. Any transmission or reproduction beyond that allowed by fair use requires permission from the owners of rights, heir(s) or assigns.

Location of this collection:

Stanford University, Manuscripts Division

Department of Special Collections, Green Library

557 Escondido Mall

Stanford, CA 94305-6004, US

Contact:

(650) 725-1022

specialcollections@stanford.edu

Website