Art of Planetary Science 2023: My Work on Display
- Rachel Beeson
- Apr 16
- 2 min read
In February 2023, I had the pleasure of exhibiting two of my digital paintings — Horsehead & Surrounding Nebulae and Lunar Landing — in The Art of Planetary Science: Big Worlds, Small Worlds at the University of Arizona’s Kuiper Space Sciences Building.
This unique exhibition brought together 174 works of art from around the world, uniting fine art and scientific data to celebrate the beauty, complexity, and scale of our universe. As both an artist and a space enthusiast, being part of this show was deeply affirming — a perfect intersection of imagination, observation, and cosmic curiosity.

🖼 The Exhibition
Curated by the Lunar and Planetary Laboratory, the 2023 theme, Big Worlds, Small Worlds, invited viewers to consider the staggering range of scales in our universe — from planetary surfaces and asteroid textures to galaxies and black holes. Alongside traditional fine art, the show featured Data Art created directly from astronomical imagery, mathematical equations, and scientific instruments.
Opening night included telescope viewings by the U of A’s Astronomy Club and a live music performance by Daytrails — all surrounded by viewers in space-themed attire. It was an incredible environment of creativity, science, and stargazing.
🌠 My Works on View
A dreamlike rendering of one of the most iconic dust clouds in space, this piece explores the surreal beauty of deep-space formations and the emotional symbolism we attach to celestial bodies.
Inspired by both historical moon missions and imagined futures, this work plays with composition and texture to create a meditative scene grounded in lunar mystery and human ambition.

🎨 Reflections
Exhibiting in The Art of Planetary Science felt like finding my creative kin — artists and scientists alike who see the cosmos not just as a subject of study, but as a canvas for wonder. I'm honored my work could be part of this year’s stellar event.
For more information about the exhibition, visit lpl.arizona.edu/art/2023.
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