Outer Space Art Appraisal

Energie für den Weltraum (Space Shuttle Launch)

This is a significant contemporary screen print titled 'Energie für den Weltraum' (Energy for Space), created in 1993 through a collaboration between Dutch artist Wout van der Vet and physicist/astronaut Wubbo Ockels. The artwork measures 55.5 cm by 75.5 cm and utilizes a vibrant silkscreen (Siebdruck) technique on high-quality paper. The composition depicts a Space Shuttle ascending through a dramatic explosion of colors, featuring a vivid palette of fiery reds, oranges, and yellows against a contrasting deep blue sky. As a limited-edition piece numbered 38/99, it is handwritten-signed by the artists. The piece is in excellent condition with no visible foxing, tears, or fading. The craftsmanship reflects the early 1990s fascination with space exploration and pop-art aesthetics. It represents a unique cross-discipline collaboration between the first Dutch citizen in space and a professional artist, making it a rare collector's item in both art and aerospace history. The absence of a frame allows for full inspection of the paper edges, which appear crisp and well-preserved.