Introduction

In 2000 and early 2001, eight cultural institutions in Pasadena presented "The Universe," a multicultural, multimedia exploration of the cosmos as interpreted by artists and scientists throughout the centuries. Exhibitions, performances, workshops, gallery talks and symposia offered an interdisciplinary study of the universe and our attempts to understand our place within it. The Universe ran from September 2000 to May 2001, and a special collective opening reception was held on February 3 when most of the institutions began their programs.

The Universe institutions included the Armory Center for the Arts, Art Center College of Design, Caltech, Huntington Library, Norton Simon Museum, One Colorado, Pacific Asia Museum, and Southwest Chamber Music. Only in Pasadena is there such a combination of world-class space and scientific research combined with long-established, internationally renowned visual art and music organizations, plus educational establishments and modern art galleries with a wholly contemporary approach. From this rich mixture of creative, groundbreaking institutions comes a dialogue that reaches backwards and forwards in time to explore issues that make a real connection with the local community and visitors from further afield.