This course explores an expanded definition of the laboratory, bridging a relationship between art and science under the framework of environmental issues, with a specific and deep understanding of the California Drought and its scientific, social, and aesthetic issues. An embedded scientist will be part of the class, extending our scientific knowledge of the drought. The course will collaborate with a climate change scientist and the Sustainable Fashion Studio in field studies and lectures. Students will be asked to attend field trips to the San Joaquin Valley, among other locations to see evidence of the drought in real time. Students will be assigned a semester long project that crosses at least two disciplines. Studio time will make use of CCA’s back lot. We will also participate in an exhibition and poster session as part of the 2015 AICAD Symposium, Exploring [Art+Design] in the Science Studio taking place at CCA November 5-7. All majors are welcome. Skills required are: proficiency in operating a digital camera and hand held drawing implements, and a willingness to learn new fine art and design tools to create interdisciplinary works. How can we examine our creative work in light of science at this moment?