For Spectra, Anna Hoetjes conducted historical research into a number of striking female astronomers who played a pivotal role in the development of spectroscopy at the end of the 19th century. Spectroscopy is a technique in which light from the universe is broken up. Based on the color spectrum, the chemical substance of the light source can be analyzed. During Langstme, Anna will show a poem, her own spectroscope and a light installation to illuminate the story of women astronomers.

Anna Hoetjes is an artist and filmmaker. Her work draws parallels between film history from the beginning of the 20th century and technological developments today. She is interested in the way people see and are seen in a technologically mediated world. How does the past influence how we look at ourselves and technology today? Hoetjes explores these questions in performances, short fiction films, video installations and lectures, spinning a web of associations between science, history and fantasy. A ‘web’ in which the role of women is becoming increasingly important.