Ep 5. Sunray Art

Sunray Art is the fascinating fifth episode of the fifth season of Innovation Nation. In this episode, host Mo Rocca and his team of experts showcase several innovative artists whose incredible work harnesses the power of the sun to create stunningly beautiful pieces of art.

The episode begins with a visit to the studio of artist Mary Wagner, who creates unique and intricate pieces of glass art using a technique known as solar fusing. Solar fusing involves using the sun's rays to heat and melt different colors of glass together, forming a beautiful and intricate composition. Mary's work is not only visually stunning, but it is also environmentally friendly since it requires no electricity or other outside energy sources to create.

Next, Mo explores the world of solar printing with artist Rob Carter. Rob uses the sun's rays to create multi-layered prints using a process called cyanotype printing. To do this, he applies a special chemical mixture to paper or fabric and then places objects on top of it to create intricate patterns. When the mixture is exposed to sunlight, it reacts and creates a unique and one-of-a-kind print. Rob's work is not only beautiful but also demonstrates the power and versatility of the sun.

In another segment, Mo visits artist Jay Bellamy, who creates stunning sculptures using the sun's rays to fuse together metal and glass. Jay's work involves welding together pieces of metal and glass in such a way that they resemble the movement and flow of water. He then exposes the pieces to the sun, which heats and fuses them together, creating a unique and beautiful piece of art. Jay's work is not only visually stunning, but it also highlights the potential for renewable energy sources to power artistic endeavors.

The episode also features a segment on artist and architect Brian Peters, who uses the sun's rays to create unique structures that harness the power of solar energy. Brian's work involves designing and building large-scale installations that are not only visually striking but also functional as sources of renewable energy. He creates structures that use parabolic mirrors and lenses to focus the sun's rays onto a single point, which can then be used to generate electricity or heat water.

Finally, the episode concludes with a visit to the studio of artist and inventor Tim Holt. Tim creates unique kinetic sculptures that are powered by the sun's rays. He uses solar panels to collect energy from the sun and then converts it into motion, which animates his sculptures. Tim's work is not only visually captivating but also demonstrates the potential for renewable energy sources to power innovative and unique art.

Overall, Sunray Art is a fascinating and inspiring episode of Innovation Nation that showcases the incredible creativity and innovation of artists who use the power of the sun to create beautiful and functional works of art. Through these stories, viewers are reminded of the potential of renewable energy sources and the limitless possibilities for creative expression.