Claremont McKenna College
Robert Day Sciences Center - Audio Tour
Magnetic Field - Damián Ortega
Stop 05 of 13 Atrium · Public Art

Magnetic Field - Damián Ortega

Atrium

Eighteen stainless-steel rings, a single sphere, and 1,476 hand-blown glass orbs mapping the Earth's magnetic field.

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RDSC · Atrium
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As you look up approximately 30 feet, you'll see Magnetic Field, a monumental sculpture by world-renowned artist Damián Ortega. Composed of 18 stainless-steel rings, a stainless-steel sphere, and 1,476 colorful glass orbs, the work depicts the Earth's magnetic field - the shield that protects our planet and makes life possible.

Ortega, who lives and works in Mexico City, created this piece as part of CMC's Walker Collection of Public Art. He envisioned it not only as a striking artwork, but also as a symbol of the Robert Day Sciences Center itself - a place where ideas orbit, connect, and spark discovery. To learn more about the artist, visit cmc.edu/public-art/damian-ortega.

After you have learned about Magnetic Field, make your way down the Social Stairs and continue the audio tour at the bottom of the stairs.