Art Blog #141: Trilobite Alien Fossil In Steel

Hello, I am Peter von Hauerland, a sculptor whose artistic philoshophy merges the fascination for Space exploration with the possibility of exoplanetary paleontology. My sculptures, which I call Galactic Fossils, are unique creations that imagine the fossils of extinct species or creatures from distant exoplanets yet to be discovered. These quite science fiction loking sculptures not only depict the intersection of two fascinating worlds but also invite Space and Sci-fi fans and Astronomers to ponder the possibilities of extraterrestrial life and the uncharted territories of the universe.

Sculpting the Cosmos in Metal

Each Galactic Fossil is meticulously crafted using 4mm steel, a material that allows for precision and durability while embodying the industrial aesthetic of modern science and technology. My sculptures are small in size, designed for easy flat disassembly, making them both practical and portable. They are constructed using an innovative method where the components stick together through friction alone, eliminating the need for adhesives or fasteners. This design reflects the ingenuity and adaptability often seen in NASA's space missions and space engineering.

The subject of this particular sculpture is a fictional trilobite-like fossil, coated in beige earthly tones to mimic the colors commonly found in fossils on Earth. By doing so, the sculpture maintains a connection to terrestrial life while extending its narrative to the cosmos. The accompanying base exhibit structure, or "podest," is a sleek, matte black structure designed with high-tech lightweight efficiency in mind. Its minimalistic finish ensures it serves as a subtle yet integral part of the artwork, allowing the fossil to remain the focal point.

Why I Chose Steel as the Base Material for My Art

Steel, a material composed of 97% metal, holds profound cosmic and symbolic significance, making it the ideal foundation for my art. Metal, at its core, is a an element forged in the final moments of a star's life cycle. Before a star explodes in a supernova, its core exhausts its ability to fuse lighter elements into heavier ones. For physical and chemical reasons, stars cannot fuse metals. At this juncture, the star collapses under its own gravity and explodes, scattering its metal-rich remnants across the universe. Many asteroids are pure metals. My art therefore has been, by fair chance, bought to Earth from the Universe. It´s a stretch but you get my point.

Metaphorically, this stellar death becomes a moment of creation and the birth of new elements that later coalesce into planets, life, and eventually, art. By choosing steel, I channel this profound transformation, embedding the essence of cosmic rebirth into every sculpture I create. Steel's resilience and malleability echo the enduring cycle of creation and destruction that governs the universe. Each piece becomes a tangible reminder of humanity's connection to the cosmos, bridging the past, present, and future.

Through the medium of steel, my art captures the awe-inspiring narrative of the universe's life cycle, allowing collectors and admirers to hold a fragment of the stars in their hands.

Imagining Life Beyond Earth

The concept of Galactic Fossils stems from a profound curiosity about the possibility of life beyond our planet. As we continue to explore the cosmos with advanced telescopes like the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) and missions like Europa Clipper, the idea of discovering traces of extraterrestrial organisms becomes increasingly plausible. These sculptures encapsulate that sense of discovery, offering a tangible representation of what might be found on distant worlds.

One of the most compelling aspects of Galactic Fossils is their ability to blur the lines between science fiction and reality. They appeal to enthusiasts of sci-fi, sciart, astronomy, and anyone captivated by cosmos and space exploration. By combining artistic creativity with scientific imagination, these sculptures serve as a bridge between disciplines, encouraging dialogue and exploration.

The Artistic Process

Creating each Galactic Fossil involves a blend of traditional three dimensional sculpting techniques and modern technology. Using 3D software and laser cutting, I design and fabricate the most detailed components that make up each piece. This process ensures precision and allows me to experiment with complex forms that would be difficult to achieve through manual methods alone.

The finishing touches, such as the color palette and textural details are carefully chosen to support the impression of an actuall fossil. For instance, the beige tones of the trilobite fossil give it an aged appearance, while the matte black base adds a futuristic contrast. The interplay of these elements creates a narrative that is both grounded in history and science-fisction like.

A Home for Galactic Fossils

Galactic Fossils are more than just sculptures; they are conversation starters, designed for those who share a passion for the intersection of art and science. Whether displayed in a modern home, a science-themed gallery, or an office space, these pieces inspire curiosity and imagination. They remind us of humanity's enduring quest to understand our place in the universe.

For collectors and enthusiasts, the Hybrid Gallery Von Hauerland offers a virtual space to explore these unique creations. The gallery shows my work and provides a platform for engaging with like-minded individuals. While I may not have polished studio photographs of my sculptures, the handheld cell-phone shots taken with my cell phone offer an authentic glimpse into my creative process. They reflect the actuall passion that drives my work forward. At times it is good to have it. You should visit us sometimes.

The Intersection of Art and Astronomy

The idea of combining space exploration and paleontology might seem rather unusual, but it is rooted in a shared theme: discovery. Paleontology uncovers the secrets of Earth's ancient past, while space exploration seeks to uncover the cosmos. Together, they offer a complex view of life's potential—both on our planet and beyond.

NASA's missions, such as the Perseverance rover's search for signs of ancient life on Mars, and the study of icy moons like Europa and Enceladus, provide endless inspiration for my work. These endeavors remind us that the universe is vast and full of possibilities, and Galactic Fossils serve as artistic implications of those possibilities.

Connecting with the Cosmos

In addition to creating sculptures, I aim to foster a community of enthusiasts who share an interest in space, science, and art. Feedback and questions from viewers are always welcome, as they enrich the dialogue around these topics and help me refine my artistic vision. By merging the tactile, tangible medium of sculpture with the abstract concepts of astronomy and paleontology, Galactic Fossils invite you to experience the exploration and discovery. They challenge you to imagine what lies beyond our world and to consider the narratives of creatures that might have once roamed distant exoplanets.

Explore the Unknown

If you find yourself intrigued by the intersection of art and science, I encourage you to explore the Galactic Fossils collection at the Hybrid Gallery Von Hauerland. Each piece is a testament to the boundless creativity that emerges when we dare to look beyond the stars. As humanity continues to push the boundaries of space exploration, these sculptures serve as a reminder of our curiosity and the infinite possibilities related to Space exploration.

Thank you for taking the time to get to know my work. Whether you are captivated by the cosmos, the ancient history of life on Earth, or the creative potential of art, Galactic Fossils offer a unique perspective that resonates with all who search to understand the universe. Feel free to reach out with your thoughts or questions. I look forward to hearing from you.

Peter von Hauerland