Art Meets Science: What Will We Leave in the Fossil Record?
Artist Erik Hagen invites us to ponder the legacy of modern human life through his exhibition “Fossils of the Anthropocene.” His paintings depict everyday objects—mobile phones, coins, hood ornaments—as they might appear preserved in rock strata millions of years from now.
The Significance of Our Detritus
Hagen’s “fossils” symbolize the remnants of our culture and the impact we have on the planet. Coins represent commerce, while telephones symbolize communication and innovation. Human relationships are captured through engagement rings, and toy army men evoke conflict. The artist’s repeated references to cars highlight our reliance on them and their contribution to climate change. Plastic, present in many of the paintings, serves as a stark reminder of pollution.
The Impact of Plastic Pollution
Hagen’s works not only depict the objects of our time, but also raise awareness about the environmental consequences of our actions. The presence of plastic micro-beads in the Great Lakes and plastic litter in the ocean is a growing concern for scientists. Hagen incorporates weathered marine plastic into his paintings, showcasing the journey these fragments have taken through our waterways.
Inspiration from Fossils
Hagen’s inspiration for “Fossils of the Anthropocene” stems from his childhood discovery of a fossil. This encounter awakened him to the vastness of geologic time and the interconnectedness of life across generations. Through his art, Hagen seeks to communicate this profound sense of time and place.
The Artist’s Perspective
Despite acknowledging the challenges facing our planet, Hagen remains optimistic about the future. He believes that humans can harness science and technology to create a more sustainable legacy for coming generations. His paintings serve as a reminder that our choices today will shape the fossil record of the future.
A Glimpse into the Future
Hagen’s “fossils” offer a unique perspective on the Anthropocene, the current geological epoch marked by significant human impact on the environment. By envisioning the remnants of our civilization as fossils, he invites us to consider the long-term consequences of our actions and to strive for a positive legacy in the annals of Earth’s history.
The Exhibition
“Fossils of the Anthropocene” is on display at the AAAS Art Gallery in Washington, D.C. through November 19, 2014. The exhibition showcases 32 paintings that explore the intersection of art, science, and the human experience. Hagen’s thought-provoking works provide a timely reminder of the interconnectedness of our actions and the profound impact we have on the planet we call home.