Natalie Starks, “Our Shared Sky: A Series of Cultural Programs to Unite Communities and Cosmos”
Mentor: Jean Creighton, Physics
Poster #164
UWM Planetarium Director, Dr. Jean Creighton, and student designer, Natalie Starks, have collaborated to develop “Our Shared Sky”, a framework for planetarium productions that draw connections between various cultures and their connections to our sky. Using Creighton’s expansive astronomical knowledge, Starks’ skills in art and design, and information from several speakers who gave perspective on their cultures, the pair produced several programs that ran throughout 2023-24 to engage audiences of all backgrounds with how people around the world are inspired by the cosmos. Starks contributed principally to the programs about Jewish, Chinese, Jordanian, and Nigerian cultures and traditions. Learning about culture and tradition around the world is a valuable asset to creating an informative and inclusive environment. Thus, the expansion of Our Shared Sky includes discussion of Hanukkah, Shabbat, Passover, Lunar New Year, and other solstice celebrations. Creighton and Starks have collaborated extensively with Rabbi Joshua Herman, PhD Students at UWM, and additional experts of more cultures to study the intricate and complex timeline of celebrations that connect to the solar and lunar calendars. These programs not only give context to historical holidays, celebrations, and traditions throughout different cultures, but also widen audiences’ understanding of the great impact our Sun, Moon, and stars have on social culture in general. This project likens elements of design—digital illustration, logo development, typography and color—to learning tools as they guide viewers through visually interesting and informational presentations. Starks has designed engaging promotional flyers and animated graphics that introduce 3 main themes: culture and religion, tradition and innovation, community and diversity. These elements successfully break down the complex details of the universe into comprehensive and appealing visual aids, uniting an audience from many backgrounds under our shared sky.