Near & Far Images

Mark Chase has been exploring images of diatoms, single-cell organisms, for over a decade with his collection of microscopes. During the last several years, he has been studying the great expanse with his telescopes. This exhibit will feature a selection of his best images from his library.

The mysteries of diatoms and celestial objects which cannot be seen with the naked eye are revealed through Mark’s photographs. Key subjects are nebulae, galaxies, and star clusters. The largest diatoms are about the width of a human hair. It is hard to believe that diatoms provide 20-30% of the oxygen we breathe and have silica as their outer shell. Through Mark’s study of both astrophotography and microscopy, unknown worlds and universes are made visible.

Mark will also display several of his handmade celestrial objets d’art as part of this exhibition. These creations have won numerous awards and are in international collections, as well as nationwide.

Mark Chase is a self-taught artist realizing a vast majority of his skills from working in the aerospace industry for over 20 years. He is known for his artworks of armillary spheres created from brass, copper, bronze, and minerals. The majority of his artworks are based on his visions of what might be in the vastness of the cosmos. It seemed natural for him to expand his interests into astrophotography. He now has a extensive collection of the night skies. Microscopes have always been of interest to Mark. For over ten years, he has captured images of diatoms from around the world.

Near & Far Images; Through the Lenses of Mark Chase will be be available for viewing January 2 though February 7, 2027 at the Dolphin Gallery in downtown Gualala.  The Opening reception will be on Saturday, January 9 from 1-3 pm.