Two University of Colorado at Boulder researchers have combined their artistic talents in a photography and art exhibit in commemoration of the 50th anniversary of CU's Institute of Arctic and Alpine Research and the International Year of the Mountain.
Assistant INSTAAR Director Tad Pfeffer and Emeritus Professor Mark Meier, former INSTAAR director, have produced a number of stunning photographs and impressionistic paintings of the regions they study. While both are glaciologists, Pfeffer relied on his cameras and Meier his brushes and acrylic paints to capture the landscape.
The exhibit will run from April 3 to May 8 in the Andrew J. Macky Gallery located in Macky Auditorium, located at 17th and University Avenue. Viewing hours are on Wednesdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
"Both of us have spent a lot of time in arctic and alpine environments," said Pfeffer. "My initial attraction to the landscape was aesthetic more than scientific, but it ultimately was the reason I became a glaciologist."
A free public reception will be held April 1 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Macky.
Meier, who has studied ice in the high mountains and polar regions for 50 years, said his family has been involved in art for several generations. An internationally renowned glaciologist, he has a valley in Antarctica named after him for his contributions to science. He has been painting and taking art courses for many years.
"This exhibit is unusual because it combines art and science," said Meier. The images are not by artists collaborating with scientists, but by two researchers melding their science with their art."
For more information contact Pfeffer at (303) 492-3480, Meier at (303) 492-6556 or Jim Scott in the Office of News Services at (303) 492-3114.