A few years ago I reported on my visit to San Francisco’s Exploratorium, a place of wonder for, as they say, “children of all ages.” It has now moved to a brand-new facility on the city’s piers, and I have to admit that I am excited at the idea – as yet that’s all it is – of seeing it. A number of the exhibits which, unsurprisingly, I found particularly fascinating, were the works of Ned Kahn. On his website he has this statement:
The confluence of science and art has fascinated me throughout my career. For the last twenty years, I have developed a body of work inspired by atmospheric physics, geology, astronomy and fluid motion. I strive to create artworks that enable viewers to observe and interact with natural processes. I am less interested in creating an alternative reality than I am in capturing, through my art, the mysteriousness of the world around us.
My artworks frequently incorporate flowing water, fog, sand and light to create complex and continually changing systems. Many of these works can be seen as “observatories” in that they frame and enhance our perception of natural phenomena. I am intrigued with the way patterns can emerge when things flow. These patterns are not static objects, they are patterns of behavior – recurring themes in nature.
In my humble view, Kahn succeeds brilliantly and compellingly in capturing “the mysteriousness of the world around us.” Go to his website and enjoy – and, if you can, go to the Exploratorium.
[Works shown: Avalanche, Sonic Range, Fluvial Storm.]
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