Type: Exhibition
The International Year of Astronomy 2009 at the Herschel Museum of Astronomy
2009 marks the 400th anniversary of Galileo’s use of the telescope which changed forever the way that man looked at the universe around him and initiated the birth of modern astronomy. UNESCO has designated 2009 as the International Year of Astronomy and a series of initiatives are being taken at international, national and local level to stimulate interest in astronomy and associated disciplines.
Inspirations Around the Sun.
The Arts and Astronomy combine to create a journey through space featuring a specially commissioned work by Cardiff based sculptor Chris Williams. Chris is an astronomical artist and his fascination with the night sky, cosmology and physics has inspired him to explore new representations of the universe. He began his association with the Herschel museum in 2005 when he entered one of his works in the prestigious sculpture competition Heavenly Bodies, it was highly commended by the judges. The new work derives from an 18th century orrery in the museum but brought up to date to incorporate all the discoveries about our solar system. Chris Williams has a Masters in Furniture Design from Bucks College in High Wycombe and has exhibited widely throughout the UK.
An exciting new exhibition to accompany the sculpture explores orreries, the solar system and inspiration investigating writers and artists who have also drawn their inspiration from the heavens.
This special exhibition is included in the normal museum admission charges.
There are also a number of lectures and Star parties (observational sessions) taking place throughout the year.
Image - Joseph Wright of Derby: A Philosopher giving that lecture on the Orrery, in which a lamp is put in place of the Sun c. 1766. (Derby Museum & Art Gallery)
