Why is it that so many of us look to the stars to contemplate our destinies? Why is it that for all the space exploration the planets still manage to hold us with their mystery? Could it be that in what is so distant and unfathomable we find some correlation to our own mysterious and unfathomable selves?

In an exhibition at Hampden Gallery, internationally recognized, New Haven-based artist, Robert Taplin aims his sights on Jupiter and, using plaster and translucent papers, brings him back to earth. Personified as a lowly mortal with feet planted firmly on the ground, Taplin's figure will stand almost twice life-size, scraping his head on the twelve-foot ceiling. During regular gallery hours, the internally illuminated Jupiter will provide the only light in an otherwise darkened gallery. In the evenings, the thousands of students who pass the gallery en route from the main campus to the southwest residential area will walk through the light cast by the sculpture. Jupiter will act as a springboard to explore psychological insights on intimacy, privacy, and identity.

In keeping with the thematic focus on the human form, Hampden Gallery will host free life drawing sessions throughout the fall semester. Call the gallery at 545-0680 for more information.