Whitney Wolf combines physics and art in a style that is intelligent and beautiful. When it comes to art, Whitney Wolf likes to use as much of his brain as possible. He first uses the left side, the logical part, to contemplate mathematical and theoretical laws of the universe. Then he incorporates the right side, which handles artistic functions, to place the ideas into his work. The compromise is rather
unique, Wolf admits. But the process has helped him create an artistic style that is just as intelligent as it is beautiful. 'The philosophy of science is really where my art generates from," he said.

Wolf's latest exhibit, "Multiverse II," is on display through Jan. 27 at the Osceola Center for the Arts, 2411 E. U.S. Highway 192 between Kissimmee and St. Cloud. An opening reception will be from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. today. More than 60 of the projects blend actual physics with Wolf's own, free-spirited imagination.

The result is a colorful and intriguing collection of watercolor and acrylic paintings dotted with various sculptures. Wolf said the technique of using scientific principles may cause some art lovers to expect accurately measured and detailed geometric images. His work, however, is much different because it gives equal respect to artistic style.

"I just use science as the input and then I let go with it," he explained.
Subjects range from lofty depictions of the universe to simple binary experiments of color and texture. Many also attempt to portray theories that cannot be seen, heard or felt - something that Wolf gladly uses to his advantage.

"A lot of my work deals with paradoxes of trying to describe something we've never seen," he said. "Nobody has ever seen these things, so by painting them, I can't really be that wrong. Can I?"

The 48-year-old Winter Park resident grew up in a family solidly rooted in the engineering business. He, himself, planned to become an engineer until he decided to change careers and become an artist. The move was difficult, yet Wolf has no regrets.

"My mother was an artist, but I never thought I would become an artist," he added.
"Art was something you did, but not something you do."

The decision led him to study philosophy at the University of Central Florida and eventually earn a degree in art. He has worked professionally for 20 years, and he opened a studio in Winter Park two years ago. He has been an art instructor for 12 years at the Maitland Art Center, operating Central Florida's only foundry for students. He also offers courses in philosophy.

Locally, he teaches drawing at Valencia Community College's Osceola Campus and has some classes at the Osceola Center for the Arts. His work has been seen at the Orlando Science Center and various local shows. "Multiverse II" will be his first display in Osceola. Hours for the show are from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturdays and noon to p.m. Sundays.