The intersection of astrophysics and artistic expression is explored in "Conjuring the Void: The Art of Black Holes," a book showcasing artwork inspired by these celestial phenomena. Lynn Gamwell, author and former director of the New York Academy of Sciences Gallery of Art and Science, presented her research on the subject at the annual conference of Harvard's Black Hole Initiative several years ago, which served as the genesis for the book. Gamwell spent a decade studying the confluence of mathematics, art, and science, making her uniquely suited to examine the artistic interpretations of black holes.

Gamwell told Ars that she was "astounded at how much art there is about black holes," and expressed particular interest in Asian art. She noted a resonance between the concept of a black hole and Eastern traditions, highlighting themes of void and nothingness. The book delves into how artists across different cultures have grappled with the scientific concepts and philosophical implications of black holes.

Black holes, once considered purely theoretical, have increasingly captured the global imagination, influencing not only scientific inquiry but also creative endeavors. "Conjuring the Void" offers a visual journey through these artistic interpretations, providing a global perspective on how a complex scientific concept can inspire diverse artistic expressions. The book examines how artists from various cultural backgrounds engage with the themes of gravity, singularity, and the unknown inherent in the study of black holes.