Painting the Cosmos: How Art and Science Intersect to Reveal the Secrets of the Universe

A stunning portrait of our vast, dynamic, and mysterious universe . . . as seen through the lenses of astronomy and art

What is our place in the universe? Where do art and science overlap? How can we use these disciplines to better understand the universe . . . and how do they help us to shape our reality? In Painting the Cosmos, astrophysicist and visual artist Nia Imara combines these perspectives to comprehensively illustrate the history of the universe and our position in it.

In this eye-opening and accessible book, Imara asks pivotal questions and explores humanity’s ever-evolving view of nature. Richly illustrated with spectacular full-color images of our universe and beautiful work from creators around the world--particularly the often-neglected work of women and Black artists--this one-of-a-kind book unites the realms of art, science, and culture to create a dynamic portrait of the cosmos.

From the Big Bang to life on other planets--while also explaining the most exciting recent developments in astronomy--with Imara’s guiding expertise, readers will explore:

The limits of objectivity in understanding reality The role of harmony and rhythm in the universe and art How light functions as a storyteller How scientists and artists help us ＂see＂ the invisible--from black holes to marginalized experiences The possibility of life beyond our solar system, and how we define intelligence

Dr. Nia Imara is an artist and astrophysicist born in Oakland, California. She is a graduate of Kenyon College, received her PhD in astrophysics from UC Berkeley, did her postdoctoral work at Harvard University, and is currently a professor of astronomy at UC Santa Cruz. Her nonprofit organization, Onaketa, provides free STEM tutoring and other educational resources for black and brown youth in the United States and Ghana.