Orla Fox

My aim in for this transdisciplinary project was to create a copper sculpture based on the phenomena of supernovae, as well as, exhibiting it in a way that extends its meaning. By visualising Nicolescu’s Hidden Third in the installation between the JLADB and ARI, I hoped that the sculpture would extend into an interactive exhibit, with the telescope, where the Observer activates the Hidden Third. Currently, due to time constraints, this particular project will most likely have to be tentative and carried into the next time. Though I have had regular contact with Merseyside Metals, the processing of receiving the copper is taking a long time due to current world conflicts.

This means that I will have to research into and consider other ways of approaching art-astronomy practice that is public facing. In my conversation with Professor Andy Newsam, he suggested that there could be some funding from the Institute of Physics (IOP), if within my work, I was engaging with methods of outreach. One of the main issues with my sculptural installation, is that it would be exhibited in across two private organisations, therefore there would be funding opportunity with the IOP.

I scheduled in a meeting with Professor Newsam to discuss outreach possibilities and was given some suggestions that I will research in to. The best target groups according to Professor Newsam clubs or groups in the local area, science festivals, and/ or primary schools. He suggested that I consider creating workshop, this way I can introduce a creative approach to science learning/communication.

My own discovery of astrophysics originated from artist research, it was through the use of metaphorical and poetic language of astrophysics, I began creating artworks and approached the subject with enthusiasm. I believe if this approach had been used at school, particularly in science, I would’ve ben far more engaged. I will consider this creative approach and how I may formulate a workshop that is still framed by the theme of Supernovae, particularly with its illustrative, poetic language. I would also like this workshop to be targeted at school children to assess whether this creative approach is successful with science leaning and engagement at a young age. As evidenced by the exhibition Qunatum Untangled (2025) and the popularity of sci-fi; translating complex scientific subjects in a digestible way, there is a desire for this type of outreach.