Interpreting the Invisible Universe | Holly Streekstra

About the Artist: 

A conceptual artist, Holly Streekstra works with multiple modes and forms of expression to investigate our subjective inner states, our relationship with wonder, and our desire for mystery and enchantment. In her work, created exclusively for her Project Space Grant exhibition, Interpreting the Invisible Universe, she uses encaustic paint, photograms, and photo-based collages to investigate and explore images of deep space.

Holly wanted to move her primary focus from the conceptual art she’s so well known for to more traditional, two-dimensional works that balance high-quality, idea-driven art with greater accessibility to art patrons. The pieces she created have a nice balance between an abstract use of color and form mixed with keenly representational images. The result is beautiful and collectible artworks.

For her exhibition, Holly used the publicly owned photographs captured by the James Webb Space Telescope as reference material. While studying the images for her show, Holly learned how astronomical telescopes capture images in the infrared, ultraviolet, X-rays, and radio wavelengths. While they provide valuable information about space objects, these wavelengths are not visible to the human eye. To construct the colorful photographs we see from space, scientists re-interpret this data, assigning colors to the various wavelengths through a process known as “false-color imaging” or “color mapping.” This technique highlights specific features and details that are otherwise invisible. This process is done primarily to make the scientific data accessible and engaging for the public.

To create her work for Interpreting the Invisible Universe, Holly uses these color-mapped images as a reference to form her own, unique interpretations of the data. She highlights the methods used to question the truth of the photos. She also intends to reveal our capacity to suspend disbelief as we gaze upon these depictions in unquestioning wonder and awe with little concern for accuracy.

Gallery Hours:
Saturday, 12pm to 4pm
First Thursday of the month, 5pm to 9pm
And by appointment.