Starry Messenger: Galileo's Vision in 21st Century Art October 29, 2009

Celebrating the International Year of Astronomy, the artwork of contemporary artists who are inspired by astronomy is accompanied by reproductions of Galileo's drawings and text panels describing his accomplishments. In 1609, when Galileo first turned his telescope to the heavens, he revolutionized humanity's understanding of its place in the cosmos. His training in the fine arts enhanced his analysis of what he saw and his ability to convey it. Just as Galileo's observations inspired artists of his own time, these works in a variety of media demonstrate the continuing allure that the cosmos holds for today's artists. The exhibit features works by Vija Celmins, Thierry W. Despont, Elen A. Feinberg, Jonthon Feldschuh, Eva Lee, Carol Prusa, Josh Simpson and Sallie Wolf.