Meteorites as Artistic Matter: Artist Ulrike Arnold in Conversation with Astronomer Gerard van Belle PhD, and Curator Rachel Jans PhD

Friday, October 16 10:00 a.m. Speakers: Ulrike Arnold, Artist; Gerard van Belle, PhD, Former Director of Science at Lowell Observatory; and Rachel Jans, PhD, Curator of Modern and Contemporary Art at The San Diego Museum of Art MOPA@SDMA Joan and Irwin Jacobs Theater Meteorites as Artistic Matter brings together internationally acclaimed artist Ulrike Arnold, astronomer Gerard van Belle, and the Museum’s Curator of Modern and Contemporary Art Rachel Jans, PhD, for a fascinating interdisciplinary conversation exploring the intersection of art, science, and the cosmos. Known for incorporating meteorite dust and pigments gathered from some of the world’s most remote landscapes into her paintings, Arnold will discuss how celestial and earthly materials become powerful artistic media. Joined by van Belle’s astronomical perspective and Jans’s expertise on the work of Sigmar Polke, a German artist also known for incorporating unconventional materials into his work, and contemporary artistic practice, this engaging guest lecture offers a rare opportunity to discover how meteorites inspire creativity, expand our understanding of materiality, and connect artistic expression with the vast universe beyond our planet. Following the lecture, guests are invited to enjoy a guided tour led by our docent team. Please note, this lecture is in-person only and held at the MOPA@SDMA Joan and Irwin Jacobs Theater in Balboa Park. $15 members and students | $20 seniors and military | $30 nonmembers Get Tickets This lecture is presented as a part of the Guest Lecture Series, which offers a platform for renowned scholars and experts from the art world to share their insights and knowledge on topics related to art history, art theory, and the museum’s collections. Sponsored by The San Diego Museum of Art Docent Council. Featured at top right: Ulrike Arnold, Flagstaff, Arizona, San Francisco Volcanic Field (detail), January 2024. Earth and meteorites. Courtesy of the artist.