Upcoming Group Exhibition: Back to Earth, Preparing a Mission to Mars.

I am pleased to be exhibiting new work along side Jenn Figg and Matthew Mccormack in a unique group show focusing on the past, present and future of space exploration through scientific experiences and artistic perspective on Mars. 

On View: April 25th - May30th, 2014 
Opening: April 25th, 4-7pm

Location: Gallery Q (free and open to the public)
Milton S Eisenhower Library
Johns Hopkins University
3400 N Charles Street Baltimore, MD 21218

Statement: 
Phoenix Rising, 2014
Soil, steel, expanding polyurethane, concrete, adhesive

Jonathan Latiano’s site-specific installations regularly explore elements of the natural sciences, astronomy, biology and geology. In Phoenix Rising, Latiano focuses on the geology of Mars and the current challenges facing astrobiologists in their continued search for life on the red planet. Many scientists believe that if evidence of life does exist on Mars, it lies in the form of microbial fossils incased within the planet’s now baron surface. The challenges of physically bringing a Martian soil sample back to Earth are both technologically and economically daunting. Phoenix Rising consists of three large piles of analogue Martian soil that form ascending spires reaching up to the ceiling of the gallery. Conveying a sense of weightlessness, the three spires idealize the simple desire for a piece of Mars to leave its home and travel the vast distance to Earth to arrive at our own waiting scientists. The work invites the viewer to tilt their head upwards towards the heavens; the same simple act that was the catalyst for our species’ fascination with the universe beyond our own planet and asking that most basic of questions, “Are we alone?” Conclusive evidence to this question would not only be one of the most prolific discoveries in human history but also has the potential to be the motivator to propel us into a new age of scientific exploration and enlightenment.