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Butterflies from satellite data: Art looks at our earth!
On June 20, 2025, the art series “Toxic Beauties” by Udo Vieth, which creatively implements satellite data, will be presented in Potsdam.
Butterflies from satellite data: Art looks at our earth!
In a fascinating combination of art and science, the Cologne artist Udo Vieth shows an innovative interpretation of earth observation data in his latest series “Toxic Beauties”. These works of art, based on satellite imagery, transform the visual information about changes in our environment into vivid butterfly motifs. The idea behind these works is not only creative, but also profound: they reflect the transformation of our planet through human activity and climate change.
Earth observation satellites, operated by the European Space Agency (ESA) since 1977, are crucial to this project. They not only document slow changes in Earth's structures, but also capture dynamic ocean processes and the rapid changes in the Anthropocene. This satellite data forms the basis for Vieth's works - it is about much more than just aesthetics. According to information from [Potsdam.de](https://www.potsdam.de/de/ Veranstaltung/toxic-beauties-satellite-data-meets-art-134), the works are both disturbing and fascinating and act as a subtle reminder of the vulnerability and far-reaching consequences of human intervention in nature.
Art as a new perspective
The butterfly, which is considered a symbol of vulnerability and metamorphosis in many cultures, becomes the closest link between humans and nature in Vieth's artworks. Rich in color, form, and detail, these works invite viewers to view the Earth from a new perspective. The creative process that Vieth uses in his work revolves around dialogue with digital algorithms. These algorithms generate new images by combining additional image layers and delivering different results, as udovieth.art describes.
Importantly, ESA's Earth observation program not only serves art, but also plays a critical role in the context of global climate change. Programs like Copernicus provide long-term data that is essential for environmental and climate observations and is available free of charge to all users. This data is valuable for accurately understanding changes on earth and processing them artistically.
A call to mindfulness
Vieth's artworks not only showcase the external beauty of the planet, but also force us to think about the impact of our actions on the environment. The butterfly motifs represent the metamorphosis of nature - a metamorphosis that, it seems, does not always proceed in the spirit of sustainability. This makes it clear: Anyone who walks through the world with open eyes not only discovers toxic beauties, but also the responsibility that each and every one of us bears.
The exhibition, which deals with this topic, will certainly attract many visitors and stimulate thought. At a time when environmentally conscious actions are required more than ever, Vieth's art is a powerful appeal to appreciate both the beauty and fragility of our planet. The creative approaches are not only appreciated by art lovers, but also offer a perspective that goes beyond the purely aesthetic.