A Millport based artist who is examining the proud questions of the universe in his work is putting on a special display on Cumbrae in August.
Gregor Harvie explores the structure of the universe in his public art show which opens on August 3.
Harvie has spent the past year thinking about some of the universe's biggest questions: What is the universe made of? Where did it come from? How does it work? What is our place in it?
Harvie’s exploration has involved spending time with the Quantum Theory Group at Glasgow University and has led to an out of this world art show which will be free to visit in Millport for the whole of August.
"It's the unknown that intrigues me," Harvie said. "Even with the world’s smartest people working on it, it's amazing that 95 per cent of the universe has never been detected and we know almost nothing about it. That is exciting subject for an artist to unleash their imagination."
Working with Glasgow University's Quantum Theory Group gave Harvie access to the latest scientific research.
This helped him understand complex ideas and turn them into art, showing how patterns – things that repeat in nature – can be used to explain the universe.
A big inspiration for his work is Lord Kelvin, the legendary scientist from the 19th century who lived in Largs, who, last month, was celebrated locally and in Glasgow for reaching the 200th anniversary of his birth.
Kelvin had a theory about an "ether" that filled the universe that is the basis of some of Gregor’s paintings.
Earlier this summer, Harvie showed two huge paintings at Glasgow University to mark the bicentenary of Lord Kevlin’s birth.
The pieces were called 'The Light Universe' and 'The Dark Universe' and they used Kelvin’s ether to highlight the stark contrast between the known universe and the mysterious realms we’re yet to understand.
Now, Harvie is bringing his art to Cumbrae. "It’s particularly meaningful to show this work against the backdrop of such a timeless island," Gregor said. "There's a real contrast between the relentless push of science and the peaceful experience of simply being in Millport."
Janice Hunter, co-founder of Hunter Saville Cumbrae Studio & Gallery, said: "Gregor Harvie’s paintings are a refreshing break from today's self-obsessed culture. Instead of looking inward, his work gazes outward, contemplating the vast, indifferent universe."
Harvie’s show will be at the Hunter Saville Cumbrae Studio & Gallery on Guildford Street from August 3-30, open daily from 10am to 5pm.
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