Created by Nicole Beck, "Astroterra" was among the sculptures in the first Art in Roanoke (AIR) temporary exhibition from October 2008 to April 2010. "Astroterra"’s outer panels depict the cosmos- a multitude of stars, nebulae, comets, supernovae, and spiral galaxies- while interior panels depict a cross-section of the earth’s cores, mantle, and crust. The flame-cut holes allow for the passage of light, create elliptical shadows during the day, and mark the passage of the hours like a sundial.

About the artist:
Nicole Beck has completed many large-scale public artworks and is exhibited nationwide. She has a holistic approach to art and science, distilling the beauty and rhythm of the dynamic systems found in nature. She also specializes in working with student apprentice artists to create collaborative artworks for permanent public installations. Visit her website at: nicolebeck.com

About AIR:
Since 2002, the City of Roanoke has designated 1 % of funds for certain capital projects to purchase or display art in the city. The program is overseen by the 19-member Council-appointed Roanoke Arts Commission. Art for Everyone, the city’s first public art plan, was adopted by the City Council in 2006.

AIR is a project of the City of Roanoke’s Percent for Art Program, established to provide public art in city neighborhoods and public places to reflect the community’s vibrancy and heritage.

Sourced from:
Information was obtained from documents by the Arts Council of the Roanoke Valley.