Symbols to the Stars
Art and science help us to understand and describe the world and the universe around us. SYMBOLS TO THE STARS is a collection of personal and crew mission patches and flight suits designed and worn by astronauts that exemplify this connection between art and science.
By thinking beyond what already exists, using creativity, imagination, curiosity, and exploration, advancements in science are able to be made, and art can be created. Scientists and artists both experiment with new techniques and ideas to create something new. In the field of space science, mission patches serve as symbolist documentation of progress in space exploration, and of the team that made it all happen.
The patches highlight the history of symbolism in art and its relevance today, as well as embodying Canada’s contribution to space exploration. These patches carry significant meaning for astronauts and their crew. They represent family, friends, interests, faiths, countries, goals, causes, and fallen colleagues. Their ultimate function is to help astronauts remember that they are part of a unit, as well as reminding them of each mission’s purpose and what matters most. This is especially important given the dangers of space missions.
Accompanying each mission patch and flight suit is a description of the mission, the astronaut’s biography, and details about the patch’s symbols and design.
This exhibition was curated by Sophie Lavoie and Cloe Hintz.
Did you know?
Kenora’s Huskie the Muskie was built as a special roadside attraction during the building of the Trans-Canada Highway in the 1960s. The name Huskie was chosen because it was submitted with a slogan: Huskie the Muskie says, “prevent water pollution”