It is believed that so-called ‘dark matter’ accounts for more than 85% of matter in the universe, despite being nearly impossible to observe or measure. Responding to the theme of materiality, Spanish-born painter Arantza Pardo reconfigures imagery from astrophysics and explores the often-subtle boundary between art and science.
Through her work, Pardo interrogates the inner nature of the universe and speculates upon its visual potential; in many ways, her intense making-process is a method of giving form to concepts that are ultimately formless. When we observe her paintings, they ask us: how can we represent the unknown?
Such grand questions form the frontline of astrophysical research, and Pardo’s work is similarly pioneering from an artistic perspective. Working with Sheffield-based creative studio Virtual Pixel, she has developed a virtual-reality experience that immerses visitors in an imagined landscape; through the VR headset, a world that was previously invisible is revealed.
Exhibition events:
Opening
Thursday 19th September, 5-8pm, free – book now
Virtual Reality Painting Sessions with Arantza Pardo & Virtual Pixel
Saturdays, 11am-3:30pm, free – book now
Conversation between Arantza Pardo & cosmologist Chris Shepherd
Thursday 17th October, 6pm – book now
