Behind Solar Maximum: The Amazing Team Making It Happen

amberqueally
Dec 16, 2024
6 min read

Updated: Dec 19, 2024

One of the most exciting aspects of Solar Maximum is the incredible team of people I’ve had the privilege to collaborate with. This project is the result of a fusion of art, science, and a shared passion for discovery, and I couldn’t be more grateful for the talented individuals who have helped bring it to life.

In this post, I’d like to introduce the key contributors to the Solar Maximum exhibition and share a little bit about the roles they play in making this project so unique.

Simon Tang (AKA The Stupid Astronomer)

At the heart of Solar Maximum is the stunning imagery provided by Simon Tang, also known as The Stupid Astronomer on social media. Simon is a solar astronomer whose work focuses on capturing the dynamic, mesmerizing surface of the sun. His photographs, taken with NASA’s Solar Dynamics Observatory (SDO), are central to the exhibition and provide a detailed view of solar activity.

Simon’s images of solar flares, sunspots, and coronal mass ejections are not only scientifically significant but also visually striking. His work captures the raw beauty of the sun’s surface, and these images provide a bridge between the art and science behind Solar Maximum. I’m so grateful for Simon’s expertise, and his contribution has allowed us to bring the science of solar weather into the art world in a truly engaging way.

W. Dean Pesnell (NASA Solar Dynamics Observatory)

Another key collaborator in the project has been Dr. W. Dean Pesnell, the Project Scientist at NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory (SDO). Dr. Pesnell has provided invaluable insights into the science of solar observation, helping to deepen my understanding of solar phenomena and the importance of monitoring space weather. His advice on the solar cycles, including Solar Cycle 25, has guided both the artistic interpretation and the scientific accuracy of the project.

Dean’s expertise has also helped me understand the complex and fascinating processes that occur on the sun, such as how solar flares and sunspots affect Earth’s atmosphere. His support has been instrumental in ensuring that the exhibition balances both artistic expression and scientific integrity.

James Bannan & Mikey Morgan (Illustrators for the Youth Activity Book)

When it came to making Solar Maximum accessible to younger audiences, I knew I needed a creative team who could bring the science of solar weather to life in a fun and engaging way. That’s where the talented local illustrators James Bannan and Mikey Morgan came in. Together, they’ve created a beautifully illustrated activity book that accompanies the exhibition, designed to educate children and families about space weather.

Their illustrations simplify complex concepts in a way that’s visually appealing and easy to understand. Whether it’s a fun drawing of the sun’s layers or an activity that explains solar flares, James and Mikey’s artwork makes learning about space weather both fun and educational. I’m so grateful for their contribution, which brings an interactive element to Solar Maximum that will engage visitors of all ages.

EvaD Ould-Okojie (Dee) & Nick Duke (Gallery Oldham)

I would be remiss not to mention the incredible support I’ve received from the team at Gallery Oldham—particularly EvaD Ould-Okojie (Dee) and Nick Duke. Dee and Nick have been my mentors throughout the Solar Maximum project, offering guidance and practical support from the very beginning. Their dedication to helping me navigate the exhibition process has been invaluable.

In addition to helping with the logistical aspects of the exhibition, Dee and Nick have been instrumental in assisting me with finding funding opportunities. From brainstorming ideas to writing funding applications, their support has been unwavering. As a disabled, low-income artist, securing the resources to bring Solar Maximum to life has been one of the biggest challenges I’ve faced, but thanks to Dee and Nick, I’ve had the mentorship and encouragement I needed to keep pushing forward.

Dee and Nick have also been wonderful in providing emotional support throughout the process. Their belief in me and my work has been a driving force, and I honestly don’t know if I would have made it this far without them. They are not just mentors but also truly awesome human beings, and I’m incredibly grateful for everything they’ve done to help make this project a reality.

Amber Queally (Artist and Curator)

And, of course, I’m proud to be part of this team as the artist and curator of Solar Maximum. My journey into the world of space weather began unexpectedly when a mild sunburn during the COVID lockdown sparked my curiosity about the sun and its effects on Earth. What started as a personal fascination has grown into a full-fledged project that combines my love for art with my newfound interest in solar science.

My role in the project has been to create sculptures and artistic interpretations of solar phenomena, such as solar filaments, sunspots, and solar flares. Using biodegradable 3D pen sculptures made from PLA filament, I’ve aimed to visually represent the complex processes occurring on the sun. These sculptures serve as both a visual representation of the sun’s internal mechanisms and a metaphor for the impact solar weather has on our planet.

As someone with autism, creating art has always been a form of self-expression and therapy for me, and this project has allowed me to combine that with an intellectual curiosity about space. Working with this amazing team has been a constant source of inspiration, and I’m thrilled to be able to share Solar Maximum with the world.

Action Together One Oldham Children and Young People Grant

I am proud to announce that Action Together's One Oldham Children & Young People Fund will be funding the printing of 150 illustrated activity books for the Solar Maximum exhibition. It is a huge privilege to be supported by such a fantastic local charity that does so much for the community. Without their support, the team and I wouldn't be able to share this unique project with the youth of Oldham, showcasing the fantastic illustrations by Mikey and Bannan. This initiative is part of Action Together’s ongoing efforts to support volunteerism and assist local organizations in developing volunteer programs, policies, and roles. By providing specialized advice, training, and support to Voluntary, Community, Faith, and Social Enterprise (VCFSE) organizations, Action Together helps strengthen local communities. Additionally, Action Together collaborates with other charities, public bodies, and infrastructure organizations to ensure a coordinated approach to service delivery across Greater Manchester. Through its funding programmes, including the One Oldham Fund, Action Together invests in projects that improve the lives of children, young people, and families in Oldham. If you’re interested in applying for funding or learning more about the fund's priorities, visit Action Together’s website.

Cody Jai Photography

Cody is a photographer based in Manchester, UK, with a passion for art and photography. Surrounded by a diverse community of artists and designers and as a neurodivergent individual, she was exposed to creativity from a young age. This, combined with her experience of home educating, sparked her love for all forms of art.

Cody’s style is centered on crafting visual narratives that defy convention. In an industry driven by trends, she prioritizes authenticity, creating unique and refreshing visuals that celebrate the personalities of stylists and models. Her commitment to genuine creativity has been key to her success in the competitive photography field.

For Cody, photography goes beyond capturing moments. It’s about telling stories, evoking emotions, and challenging perceptions. She pushes boundaries and embraces individuality, creating photographs that resonate long after the shutter clicks.

A special shoutout to Cody for her help in editing Simon's photographs to make them suitable for print. As someone who is not tech-savvy, her expertise and support were invaluable. To see more of her work, visit www.codyjai.co.uk.

1853 Studios and Gallery

1853 has been an essential part of preparing for this exhibition, and I’m incredibly grateful for the support of Rachel Nettles and Luca Shaw. Located in Osborne Mill, Oldham, 1853 Studios is a vibrant creative hub offering high-quality, affordable studio spaces for various artistic practices. With adaptable gallery spaces for exhibitions, workshops, and events, 1853 Studios fosters collaboration and innovation within the local creative community.

Rachel, the Founder and Studios Manager, has created a welcoming and safe environment with high-spec studios that are perfect for artists. Her dedication to providing a conducive space for creativity has been crucial in bringing this exhibition to life. Luca, the Studios Creative Director and Curator, has been instrumental in shaping the exhibition, offering expertise in curating and organizing events. Her background in multidisciplinary art and experience with arts organizations has been invaluable throughout the process.

Together, Rachel and Luca are committed to creating a cultural hub in the heart of Oldham, empowering local artists and fostering community engagement. Their vision for 1853 Studios goes beyond providing space—it’s about supporting the growth of creatives in Greater Manchester. I’m grateful for their ongoing support and excited to see 1853 Studios continue to thrive as a key part of the local arts scene.

A Final Thank You

I want to extend my deepest gratitude to everyone involved in this project—Simon, Dean, James, Mikey, Dee, Nick, Action Together, Cody Jai and the entire team at 1853 for supporting this vision. Without each of you, Solar Maximum would not be possible. This exhibition results from collaboration, creativity, and a shared passion for discovery, and I can’t wait to share it with the world.