Scotland Outdoors Connecting with Deep Time, a Special Volcano and Planet Mars with Artist Ilana Halperin
Mar 18, 2026
Ilana Halperin, artist exploring human ties to geological forces and deep time. She recounts childhood rock hunts and a shift from theatre to sculpture. She discusses a decades-long relationship with Eldfell volcano and curating its 50th anniversary. She describes virtual field trips to Mars, artworks linking Earth and Mars, and using geology to reflect on migration and community.
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Childhood Museum Play That Kindled A Rock Obsession
- Ilana Halperin's childhood in New York City sparked her tactile bond with rocks through parks and the American Museum of Natural History.
- She remembers crawling through a cave-like Hall of Minerals and Gems where visitors could lay hands on sparkling specimens, creating lasting wonder.
A Volcano Birthday Pact That Became A Lifelong Practice
- Ilana formed a long-term relationship with Eldfell, a volcano that erupted on Heimaey in 1973, after visiting it for her 30th birthday.
- She recounts Eldfell appearing overnight and how the island's fishing fleet being in harbour allowed all 5,000 inhabitants to be evacuated by boat.
Using Milestone Birthdays To Build A Volcano Exhibition
- Ilana returned to Eldfell for milestone birthdays (30, 40, 50) and used those visits to curate collaborative exhibitions marking the volcano's 50th anniversary.
- For the 50th she partnered with local researchers and artists, displaying work in the museum under Eldfell's shadow and involving archival and scientific materials.