The California NanoSystems Institute is where the future is being created. This future is not just for a select few: it is the future for us all. It is a future that the public should engage, not fear.

Encouraging the public to engage the research at the CNSI requires the creation of objects people can interact with. The Ear of Dionysius fulfills this need while highlighting the interdisciplinary work being done at the CNSI.

The Ear of Dionysius gives anyone and everyone an opportunity to interact with the institution. It is a means by which people can become involved with the CNSI. It makes the CNSI more approachable.