Vantablack: The Blackest Black Pigment and the Controversy Surrounding Its Exclusive Use
What is Vantablack?
Vantablack is the blackest black pigment ever created. It absorbs 99.96% of all light, making it appear almost two-dimensional. Vantablack is made by growing carbon nanotubes, which are ten-thousandth of the width of a human hair.
Military Applications
Vantablack was originally developed by Surrey NanoSystems for military applications, such as stealth jets and satellites. Its ability to absorb light makes it ideal for camouflage and reducing radar visibility.
Artistic Potential
Despite its military origins, vantablack has also captured the attention of artists. Its unique properties offer exciting possibilities for creating optical illusions and exploring the boundaries of art.
Anish Kapoor’s Exclusive Rights
In 2014, artist Anish Kapoor acquired the exclusive rights to use vantablack in art. This decision sparked outrage among many artists, who argued that it was unfair to monopolize such a groundbreaking material.
Historical Precedents
Kapoor’s exclusive rights to vantablack are not without historical precedent. Throughout history, artists have fought over the rights to use certain colors. For example, lapis lazuli, a vivid blue pigment, was highly prized by European artists for centuries.
The Case of Yves Klein
Another notable example is Yves Klein, a French artist who patented a deep blue called “International Klein Blue” in 1960. Klein’s exclusive rights to this color sparked controversy, but it also helped to establish his artistic legacy.
The Controversy
Kapoor’s exclusive rights to vantablack have raised ethical and practical concerns. Some artists argue that it is immoral to restrict access to such a unique material. Others argue that Kapoor’s monopoly stifles creativity and innovation in the art world.
Surrey NanoSystems’ Role
Surrey NanoSystems, the company that developed vantablack, has declined to comment on Kapoor’s exclusive rights. However, the company has stated that it is committed to exploring the potential of vantablack in both military and artistic applications.
The Future of Vantablack
The controversy surrounding vantablack is likely to continue. It remains to be seen how Kapoor will use his exclusive rights and how other artists will respond. However, one thing is clear: vantablack has the potential to revolutionize both the military and art worlds.
Additional Considerations
- Unlike previous controversial pigments, vantablack was not invented by Kapoor, and it has unique properties that differentiate it from normal paint.
- Vantablack’s exclusive use has sparked a debate about the balance between artistic freedom and intellectual property rights.
- The controversy surrounding vantablack highlights the complex relationship between art, science, and commerce.