THE COSMOS IS A WORK IN PROGRESS…

Astronomy as Data Design

The history of astronomy offers a platform from which we can explore ideas and theories surrounding experimental communication and information design. To examine how the cosmos can fit into that our narrow frame of references is to confront complex issues of representation, illustration, visual complexity and media archaeology. What are we actually seeing when we look at space? Ken Hollings offers a guide to what you've been missing.

Ken Hollings is a writer, broadcaster and cultural theorist. His work has appeared in numerous journals and anthologies, and he has written and presented features for BBC Radio 3, BBC Radio 4 and Resonance 104.4 FM. He has worked with photographers, illustrators, fine artists, composers, filmmakers and performers on numerous collaborative projects. He believes that text is an essential form of communication design and plays an integral role in design practice.

He is the author of the books Destroy All Monsters, Welcome to Mars and The Bright Labyrinth, which forms the basis for his lecture series of the same name.

Ken Hollings is Visiting Lecturer, Visual Communication, Royal College of Art.