Paula Winokur

Ceramics

Paula Winokur, Ice Cores (2010). Porcelain. Dimensions: 34” x 5” (each core), total width 42”. ©Paula Winokur 2010. Courtesy of the artist.

Atmospheric concentrations of carbon dioxide, methane and nitrous oxide – greenhouse gases that trap heat – have risen dramatically in recent decades.

Scientists cull this evidence from many sources, including “ice cores” – samples drilled deep into the ice sheet. The cores contain snow and trapped air. Like tree rings, they reveal a wealth of information, including the temperature and air chemistry that existed many thousands of years ago.

Paula Winokur’s intriguing sculpture makes the scientific process visible – and understandable – to the general public.