J. Yablonsky ‘22
STudio ARt mfa, Towson University
Untitled Installation for R. Peale, 2022
19th-century telescope (reproduction), ground charcoal, egg tempera
Dimensions variable
Rembrandt Peale’s interests lived at the intersection of science and art. This reproduction maritime telescope is not unlike the ones used to monitor the Inner Harbor generations ago, however, this one focuses on the Peale’s garden below. Surrounding the scope are the common names of every plant the artist observed growing in the garden, both cultivated and volunteer. The paint used is an egg tempera mixed with charcoal made from plant matter collected from last season’s growth cycle. On the floor, the names of invasive species of plants surround the names of the more susceptible native species. As viewers attempt to look through the scope, the view is deliberately out of focus and the plant names will become illegible as viewers steps around the letters.
