The Umbra and the Human Experience
The universe is a vast and mysterious place, filled with celestial wonders and hidden complexities that have intrigued humanity for millennia. One of the most captivating astronomical events is the solar eclipse, where the moon aligns perfectly with the sun, casting a shadow on our planet. But what does it mean to be within the umbra, the innermost and darkest part of this shadow, where the world turns dark, the temperature drops, and the natural world falls silent?
In a recent conversation, Neferteri Strickland, curator of the recent group exhibition In the Umbra at Chimaera, delved into this topic, exploring the science and symbolism behind the umbra. She engaged with three of the participating artists, Margarita Hagan, Rebecca Kamen, and Deirdre Murphy, who have captured the essence of this phenomenon and translated it into thought-provoking works of art.
Margarita Hagan, a ceramic sculptor, opened the discussion by sharing her artistic journey inspired by the celestial seam of the umbra. Her pieces, Syzygy and Stardust, beautifully depict the alignment of celestial bodies, including the sun, moon, and Earth, and the magic that occurs during a solar eclipse. Hagan’s work reminds us of the deep-rooted connection between humanity and the cosmos, both emotionally and gravitationally.
Stardust is a part of her Micro Grow series, which explores the intricate patterns and regenerative capabilities of diatoms, one-cell organisms that play a crucial role in our ecosystem. Margarita masterfully weaves together the science of silica, the most abundant element on Earth, and the beauty of these microscopic creatures, reminding us that we are all made of stardust.
Rebecca Kamen, a sculptor and lecturer with a passion for art and science, shared her artistic endeavors that bridge the gap between inner and outer space. She discussed her fascination with patterns, complexity, and systems, both in the macrocosm of solar flares and the microcosm of the human retina.
Rebecca's work embodies the essence of curiosity and the creative process in art and science. Her pieces invite viewers to explore the intricate patterns of the universe and the interconnectedness of all things. Her Quantum Quilts series, inspired by quantum physics, reminds us of the beautiful tapestry of knowledge that weaves together the fabric of the universe.
Deirdre Murphy, a painter who decodes interconnected patterns in art and science, has recently turned her attention to virology. Her artwork reflects on our shared global humanity and the invisible ties that bind us. In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, her paintings serve as a poignant reminder of our interconnectedness even during isolation.
Deirdre's artwork foreshadows the intricate dance of viruses on a global scale, highlighting the beauty of biological patterns within the microscopic world. Her exploration of virology through art invites us to contemplate the importance of collective responsibility and understanding in the face of global challenges.
The conversation with Neferteri Strickland and these three remarkable artists sheds light on the profound connections between art and science, and how both realms help us better understand the universe and our place within it. Just as the umbra during a solar eclipse marks a moment of alignment and connection, these artists' works illuminate the intricate patterns that underlie our existence and our shared humanity.
Through their creative expressions, Margarita Hagan, Rebecca Kamen, and Deirdre Murphy invite us to explore the beauty of the cosmos, the wonder of biological patterns, and the importance of curiosity and connection in our journey of discovery. Art and science, when intertwined, offer us a richer understanding of the world around us, reminding us that we are all part of a larger, interconnected whole.