WEEK 9: Unit 9

Space is an amazing concept. Some people cannot even talk about it because it is so mind blowing. The Powers of Ten video made it clear just how large space is and put human life into perspective. After watching the video I sat back and really thought about my life and how important little things (like what to wear, who said what, and what celebrity is dating who) are to me when in reality, I'm only 10^0 power out of an infinite number of powers of ten. I think Space & Art was a perfect ending to this class because it not only encompasses everything we've learned about in class, but also our daily lives outside of class. While sitting and pondering these thoughts, I was reminded of a video that says it all. It's called Pale Blue Dot by Carl Sagan and it talks about everything this unit has made me feel. Here's the link if you'd like to check it out: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wupToqz1e2g

Artists use basic space concepts like gravity in art. Kathleen Forde uses examples of how artists have taken the concept of gravity and separated it from science and turned it into art. Forde says "Gravity is the physical force of attraction between massive objects, but it also connotes seriousness and depth, a metaphorical weight. Scientists speak of zero gravity, microgravity, and reduced gravity, states in which the physical force of gravity is diminished, limited, or even suspended." So, not only is gravity a scientific concept, its a deep, emotional metaphor for a lot of artists. 

The exploration and study of space would not be possible without technology, beginning with the invention of the telescope all the way to modern day machines. Being a fan of cartoons myself, I appreciated the reference to The Jetsons and The Flintstones. It really shows how far we, as a species, have come. 

Sources:

“A Pale Blue Dot.” A Pale Blue Dot. N.p., n.d. Web. 30 Nov. 2012. 

Forde, Kathleen. "Dancing on the Ceiling: Art & Zero Gravity." Dancing on the Ceiling: Art & Zero Gravity. Curtis R. Priem Experimental Media and Performing Arts Center, 2010. Web. 31 May 2015.

“Leonardo Space Art Project Visioneers.” Leonardo Space Art Project. MIT Press, 1996. Web. 26 Nov. 2012.

"POWERS OF TEN AND THE RELATIVE SIZE OF THINGS IN THE UNIVERSE."Eames Office. Eames Office, 09 Oct. 2013. Web. 31 May 2015.

"The Jetsons Meet The Flintstones." Funnier Moments. N.p., n.d. Web.