Satellite Imagery
In an attempt to understand the world and the universe, we often send satellites into space. They are extensions of us sent to where we cannot go to collect data on subjects that astound our imaginations. Although satellites usually float in space, very far away from the subject matter they have been built to study, they often produce composite imagery that must be stitched together to make a complete picture, due to the vast scale of the subject matter. When an image is constructed in this format, it necessarily references the scientific nature of satellite imaging. The implied purpose for such pictures is scientific study, an attempt to quantify and to define the subject matter. The image, words, and notation of measurement and direction are components used to enhance (or alter) the meaning of the image. However, while the nature of collecting the data may be unbiased, the interpretation, display and labeling of the data, is must pass through the all too fallible filter of the scientist or in this case, the artist. The images have been corrupted by overlying more personal images, and the text has been altered with religious or non-scientific explanations of the world and its history. The artist/scientist attempts to define and quantify a blending of personal and universal mythology that is impossible to elucidate. The content is also at odds with the nature of painting; this type of information is generally not acceptable subject matter for painting. It forces the viewer to try to reconcile the two disparate information types, and to become aware that the discourse of science can never be totally separated for the creative discourse of art.