Sungazing

Sungazing is the first piece in a new series that focuses on various phenomena of light. I am interested in the interpretation of experiences that happen outside our “cone of vision” or understanding of optics. Misunderstood light phenomenon has been documented for centuries. The Ashen Light of Venus, Will-o’-the-Wisp, and the “green flash” are all examples of light phenomena that have either been attributed to a supernatural cause, or are still not completely understood. Rare and unusual light phenomena have inspired everything from fantastical writings to discoveries in science. Sungazing attempts to mesmerize the viewer with its slow transitions from “day to night”, while cycling through the visible spectrum on the sphere. Just outside the “cone of vision”, one can experience strange scintillating situations and quickly changing afterimages. Staring directly into the sun has been part of various spiritual and medical practices in the past. The Bates method, for example, was proposed as an alternative way to improve eyesight by various means which included staring into the sun for prolonged periods of time. The audio that accompanies Sungazing is borrowed from NASA’s approximation of what the Sun would sound like based on vibrations and waves detected within it.