Sharing the Skies

The National Center for Atmospheric Research focuses on atmospheric science and education, so it’s fitting that it would display art fixated on the sky—NCAR is currently housing the renowned Kim Abeles’ “Shared Skies” exhibit at its South Boulder campus.

Abeles is known for using both conventional and unique forms of media to bring attention to critical issues in society. She has explored everything from gender roles to the environment through her artwork, and has been exhibited in 22 countries. This collection of digital prints specifically incorporates photos of the sky taken from all over the world; by comparing them, she tells a story of unity. The photo strips depict different weather conditions, such as a thunderstorms and clear blue skies. One section of red sky was taken here in Colorado during the Hyde Park fire, for example.

The photos are collected from Abeles’ and other artists’ travels, bought through stock photo sites, and from international friends via social media—it’s as if she has curated her own exhibit, through an image crowdsource. World landmarks appear, such as Egyptian pyramids and the top of the Eiffel Tower, so the images chosen by Abeles portray a sense of community within the larger world. Abeles also uses seemingly simple photographs to depict the effects of environmental decisions on the world.

Abeles’ work has won many awards, and last year she received a coveted Guggenheim Fellowship for her creative ability. She presents basic facts about contemporary problems in unorthodox ways that renders her art to the next level. The overall message? While it may look different depending on where you stand, we all share the same sky.

Shared Skies is on display at the National Center for Atmospheric Research through June 30, 2014.