Comets, Comics, and Creation: Special Collections about Space
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On August 21, 2017 Baltimore, along with all of North America, will be plunged into darkness as a solar eclipse covers the earth in the shadow of the moon. According to Space.com, it is the first time such a large-scale eclipse has fallen over the continent since 1776. Eclipses and other astronomical phenomena are ripe grounds for artistic inspiration from the dawn of time, and were once interpreted as heralds of war, apocalypse, and godly interference on earth.
Eclipses throughout history have also ignited wonder in artists, scientists and viewers, as well as leading to memorable discoveries and written works. Observations from the eclipse of 1919 helped confirm Einstein's theory of relativity after light was seen bending around the mass of the sun. Eclipses also inspired writers such as Mark Twain, Issac Asimov, and Stephen King. Many contemporary artists continue to draw inspiration from the religion, science, mathematics of the stars.
To prepare for our impending eclipse, the Decker Library is showing star and science-inspired works from its Artist Book collection, including many newly acquired items added this summer. View some wildly sci-fi constructions alongside meditative and poetical works, while studying star atlases and other views of the night sky.
Remember to take some time between 1.20 and 4 p.m. on Aug. 21st to observe this rare celestial event. For more information and eclipse-viewing safety tips, visit NASA's Eclipse website. For more information about the items on display, email refer@mica.edu or ask a library staff member.
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