Großer Windkanal 1

This painting is inspired by the Großer Windkanal in Berlin. Its massive concrete structure shifts into something cellular, cosmic, almost geological. I wanted to capture that moment of transition when what seemed unyielding gives way and a more elemental presence emerges. 

This image is a reminder that even the most rigid structures (historical or personal) can be dissolved,
revealing movement and an inner light beneath the surface.

Acrylic ink, oil and wax pastels on canvas
40 cm x 30 cm / 15.75" x 12"

An artist residency at the particle accelerator here in Berlin opened up the world of particle- and astrophysics to me. Electrons race at light speed, generating a very specific kind of radiation, called “Synchrotron Light”, as they go. This light is harnessed and used to observe how materials react to shifts in environmental conditions. In a way, scientists can “see” deep into the interior of solid matter. 

These images are of the "Großer Windkanal", a heritage-listed, aerodynamics laboratory in Berlin built in the early 1930s. If it were possible to expose it to the Synchrotron Light  could we not only see inside its walls, but what if we could also see into its history as well? 

Signed and titled on the back.

The edges are painted in matching colours so that you don't need to frame the artwork. It comes ready to hang as is.