Painting the Universe: A visual and musical exploration of space-time
About this Event
Gravitational waves were first detected in 2017, a moment that Dr. Karelle Siellez describes poetically as a moment when “the Universe spoke in waves and light—ushering in a new era of astronomy”. In this lecture, Dr Siellez weaves together sound, art, and astrophysics to explore the story of gravitational waves and the collisions that create the elements we are made of. Through “multi-messenger” signals like kilonovae and gamma-ray bursts, we’ll uncover how the cosmos communicates its most violent events. Blending scientific insights with creative expression, this journey reveals how listening to the Universe—and protecting its silence—can connect science, nature, and humanity.
Note: This event is proudly supported by the Australian Institute of Physics as part of the Marie Curie Lecture Series
We are living in a new era of both astronomy and space exploration. The 2026 July Lectures in Physics is a thought-provoking free lecture series where world-leading physicists bring engaging talks to the Melbourne public every Friday in July since 1968. This year marks 100 years since the first flight of a liquid-fuelled rocket by Robert Goddard, 40 years since the launch of the first Mars rover (Soujourner) and is the year we witnessed humans returning to the moon with the inspirational Artemis II mission. Our eminent speakers will be asking the big questions: Should humans colonise Mars, and how would we? What can Australian-made satellites tell us about our Universe? What role do local scientists play in space exploration? How has the discovery of gravitational waves changed astronomy? Join our line-up of eminent speakers to find out.
Refreshments will be served after each lecture in the foyer of Sidney Myer Asia Centre
We are grateful for the support of the Laby Foundation for enabling this talk, which forms part of the wider programme of the Oxford XIII Cultural Astronomy School and the .
Agenda
🕑: 06:00 PM - 07:00 PM
Public Lecture
🕑: 07:00 PM - 08:00 PM
Reception in the foyer of Sidney Myer Asia Centre
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
AUD 0.00
