Cosmigraphics is an epic look through space history that reveals the fundamental importance of the humble image on human imagination and understanding.
The latest project of writer, photographer and filmmaker Michael Benson, Cosmigraphics, through its illustrations, maps, charts and telescopic images, aims to tell the story of humanity’s understanding of our ever-expanding universe. From the earliest woodcuts depicting 6 days of creation, to the very latest images from the European Space Agency that reveal an echo of the Big Bang dating back to 13.81 billion years ago. These difficult concepts of scientific fact and theory are made tangible by visuals that both inform and engage our imaginations.
Biblical engravings that claim space as the territory of the gods, or Victorian predictions of doom and destruction at the whim of a great comet – reminiscent of scenes from H.G. Wells’ War of the Worlds – reveal just how far we have progressed in a relatively short time. The predictably human reaction to a fear of the unknown has been superseded by high-resolution photography and computer visualizations that should add perspective to our own existence.
With Comigraphics’ combination of art, science, theology and philosophy, readers are offered a fascinating look at the importance of the simple ‘infographic’ on human understanding and evolution, with much to contemplate beyond it’s 1000 years worth of superb images.
Cosmigraphics: Picturing Space Through Time by Michael Benson
Abrams Books
Hardback 320 pages
31.2 x 25 x 3.2 cm
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