Trophy

“Milky Way can be seen as a symbol of the unbiased attitude intrinsic to scientific research – approaching things from different directions and frameworks.”

“The visual starting point for Milky Way is Planet Nine, a hypothetical planetary body that has intrigued the scientific community in recent years. Many observations suggest the existence of a massive object that may be affecting planetary orbits at the outer edge of the solar system. The orbit of this conjectured ninth planet lies, on average, 20 times farther from the Sun than Neptune, and one full circuit would last between 10,000 and 20,000 years. My design for the trophy remains largely faithful to the shape of Planet Nine’s orbit, although I was also inspired to take some creative liberties.

My aim is for Milky Way to inspire the viewer to think of new and multi-dimensional interpretations that range from the cosmos to microcosms. The work can be seen as a symbol of the unbiased attitude intrinsic to scientific research – approaching things from different directions and frameworks. The process generates a huge amount of new information and know-how that can at best lead to breakthroughs that have a major impact on humanity. Milky Way is made from Finnish alder wood and laser-cut, 100% recycled, stainless steel produced by Rautaruukki in an intricate manual process.”

Pekka Jylhä, sculptor