Hugh Aldersey-Williams

I am a writer and curator with interests ranging from science to architecture and design. My latest book is Periodic Tales, which reveals how we all know the elements without going anywhere near a chemistry laboratory. It has me attempting some frankly bizarre experiments, including trying to extract phosphorus from my own pee (I failed), and buying plutonium over the counter (I succeeded, after a fashion!). I'm also a curator. My exhibitions have ranged from the thorny topic of identity (at the Wellcome Collection) to zoomorphic architecture (at the V&A). I'm working on an exhibition of artworks related to the chemical elements, as well as on a new book about the human body.