Oskar Fischinger (1899-1988)

Molecular Study #2
1965
Oil on canvas panel

The title “Molecular Study #2” suggests this painting shows the paths of electrons and protons as
they rotate around a nucleus. But I also see it as showcasing planetary motion; the planets
revolving around a star. Both molecules and planets are objects in space, related to one another.
However, this seems strange: how can these objects be separate but united by the same space?
This is where the philosophy of Metaphysics can come in, questioning the way we think space
operates. The space allows for motion to occur, seen in the rotation of electrons or planets.
Notice the different shades of blue in the painting – I believe that the sense of the space in
motion is captured in these blues. Motion occurs throughout the painting, even though the image
itself is static. Is there a certain amount of space which never changes? Or does space grow to fit
its contents?

Silas Babilonia