Diamonds in the Sky
is the title of an exhibit of images
from the Hubble Space Telescope now showing, through December
10, at the Hearst Art Gallery on the campus of Saint Mary's College
in Moraga.
Professor Ronald P. Olowin, of the Department of Physics and Astronomy,
and Gallery Director Carrie Brewster have selected some of the
most spectacular of the images captured by the Space Telescope
and are presenting them as fine art.
According to Carrie Brewster, the pieces in the exhibition have
“a strong, central, unified, coherent image with a strong
focal point in terms of color.” The images as presented have
undergone computer manipulation to exaggerate these characteristics
of natural beauty and color.
The event is supplemented by star charts, a moon rock, courtesy
of NASA, astronomical art and illustrated texts that trace the
role the stars and constellation mythology have played in shaping
and guiding civilizations throughout history.
The Hearst Art Gallery of Saint Mary's College is known for a
richly diverse exhibition schedule, significant publications and
a variety of educational programming for all ages. Accredited
by the American Association of Museums, the Gallery's permanent
collection of more than 2000 art works features 150 paintings
by the late 19th century California landscape master William Keith.