Mankind has been utilizing solar energy for thousands of years. While its applications from then to now differ widely, it remains a useful source, not only from a practical point of view, but also from an artistic one. A certain solar artwork piece, called Solar Intersections, proves this point, as it has been glowing since 1989, changing to full color in the sky. Modern and innovative solar designs such as this one could change how we view and utilize solar energy in architecture in the future.
The evolution of solar energy: From then to now
Since ancient times, mankind has been inspired to turn to the sun for human use. In the 7th Century B.C., mankind harnessed sunlight with magnifying glasses to make fire, and in the 3rd Century B.C., the Romans and Greeks utilized solar energy for religious ceremonies by using mirrors to reflect the sunlight and light torches, as per Mackinnon and Partners.
Fast forward a few thousand years, and we find ourselves in a swift technological advancement with increased global interconnectedness. Unfortunately, this era also faces severe climate change with troubling effects, not only on human health, but on the entire planet as a whole. Together, the world has pledged to use technological advancement to address climate change with renewable technologies, such as solar energy technologies.
Unfortunately, solar technologies face challenges in applications, especially in urban environments. According to Solar Hub SA, these challenges include shading from urban buildings, limited installation space, and visual pollution. However, a solar artwork called Solar InterSections could change our perspective on solar designs in urban environments and in general.
The Solar Intersections could change our perspective
Those of you who have been to Davis, California, would have been awe-struck by colorful beams growing into the sky. These beams are not from some extraterrestrial origin, per se, but rather from an innovative solar artwork, piercing the sky at 70 feet tall. This artwork was designed and installed by Robert Behrens in 1989, and it has been glowing ever since.
The artwork, Solar Intersections, consists of nine steel poles that have been coated with a special adhesive paint. Solar panels were attached to the paint, which absorb solar energy during the day, and reflect a colorful display at night. The artwork is surrounded by a checkerboard pattern of crate myrtle trees and perennial flowers, reflecting the entire place.
From solar artwork to kinetic sculptures that dance without energy, you cannot help but feel inspired. Imagine if solar energy technologies could become more aesthetically pleasing in the future.
Making solar energy aesthetically pleasing
Solar power art is very inspiring. By merging solar technology and materials with art, aesthetics could be merged with sustainability to create functional artwork that produces clean power, engages citizens with renewable energy and climate change themes, and thus raises environmental awareness. Not only can it revolutionize the renewable industry, but it can change the future of architecture as well.
Functional solar art could boost energy security, lower costs, and so much more. According to VPRC, functional solar art has unlimited design potential, and could include:
- Solar flora
- Interactive art, such as “PITCH!” in Melbourne
- Solar light installations
- Solar murals
- Solar facades
Making solar energy technology designs more aesthetically pleasing could open the doors to a more picturesque and futuristic future. Not only will it help make the world more sustainable by keeping the global carbon footprint intact, but it will also reduce visual pollution and the vast land requirements of traditional designs. Imagine if we could make this ultra-thin paper that makes everything solar, more colorful. The application and architectural design possibilities would be endless!