Physicist Linus Pauling developed the concept of the hybridized atomic orbital in 1932, integrating emerging theories in quantum physics to explain bonding of atoms and how light interacts with matter. The Po Shu Wang sculpture is reminiscent of a stylized atomic hybrid orbital. When visualizing an orbital, one treats the orbital shape as the region of high probability of finding an electron in a certain energy state. In this photograph, the pedestrian – in his current energy state – is visually outside the realm of probability described by the Po sculpture.
This piece was included in the exhibition, Light Chasers: An Intersection of Science and Art, held in Rochester, MN, in August, 2019, a project funded in part by a grant from the Southeast Minnesota Arts Council.
This photograph is presented on fine art Torchon paper, and is 30"x20" in size. The limited edition print is numbered and signed by Rick. This is a print only, with no mat or frame.
