The Infinite Look: A History of Gazing Skyward

A new, free exhibition at the University of New South Wales (UNSW) Library invites visitors to explore humanity's enduring connection with the cosmos. 'The Infinite Look: A History of Gazing Skyward' will run until October 30.

Curator Dr. Megan R Fizell hopes visitors leave with a deeper understanding of how our relationship with the cosmos blends scientific advancement and cultural storytelling.

What's in the Exhibition

The exhibition is presented across three distinct spaces, drawing from UNSW's collections of instruments, artworks, mineral samples, and archival materials.

Space 1: Technology
This section traces the evolution of tools used to understand the heavens, from early mapping instruments and detailed lunar sketches to modern virtual reality experiences based on images from the Mars Rover.

Space 2: Perception
Here, the focus shifts to how we see the universe. Displays explore how different wavelengths of light reveal hidden aspects of space, and address contemporary challenges like light pollution and the growing issue of space debris.

Space 3: The Infinite Look
The final space examines the deep cultural meanings of the night sky across human history, including its roles in navigation, ceremony, myth, and our fundamental concepts of time and place.

Collaboration & Vision

The exhibition was developed in collaboration with UNSW's School of Physics and School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences. Curator Dr. Megan R Fizell noted that the team worked closely with subject-matter specialists to refine the displays and reflect the university's teaching priorities.

Dr. Fizell said she was particularly struck by how artistic traditions and scientific technologies developed in tandem throughout history.

Featured Artists & Works

The exhibition showcases a diverse range of artistic interpretations of the cosmos, including:

• A Moon painting by Tiwi artist Timothy Cook, created in the context of the kulama ceremony.
• A Seven Sisters work by Pitjantjatjara artist Sylvia Kanytjupai Ken.
• Digital works by Indigenous Academic Specialist Anissa Jones that weave cosmic imagery with the Dharug language.
• Two portrayals of the Moon by UNSW alum Abdullah M.I. Syed, created in direct response to 19th-century astronomy texts from the Library's Special Collections.

Related Events & Experiences

Beyond the static displays, the exhibition offers additional programming:

• An inflatable planetarium will host guided sessions with UNSW astronomers.
• Virtual Reality experiences will allow visitors to simulate a spacewalk on the surface of Mars.