
Robert Berks Bronze on granite base 135 x 165 x 138 inches 1979 Photograph by Alex Jamison
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The Einstein Memorial
The Einstein memorial, which draws thousands of visitors each year, has become perhaps the NAS Building’s most recognizable symbol. Surrounded by holly and elm trees in the southwest corner of the Academy grounds, the bronze sculpture depicts NAS member Albert Einstein, often called the father of modern physics, seated on a bench of white granite and holding a tablet with mathematical equations that symbolize three of his most important scientific contributions. The sculptor, Robert Berks, created more than 300 portraits of individuals in public and private life, including six U. S. presidents, among them John F. Kennedy, whose bust stands in the nearby Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. At Einstein’s feet lies a circular sky map representing the planets, sun, moon, and stars positioned as they were at noon on April 22, 1979, when the memorial was unveiled and dedicated. Listen to these audio clips to learn more about Albert Einstein and the Einstein memorial.
Einstein Memorial Audio Tour
What is the National Academy of Sciences? Ralph Cicerone, President of the National Academy of Sciences
Einstein and Science NAS Member Michael Turner, Theoretical Cosmologist, University of Chicago
Einstein and Creativity Walter Isaacson, Author of Einstein: His Life and Universe
The Constellation Map at the Base of the Memorial NAS Member Vera Rubin, Astronomer, Carnegie Institution of Washington
Meeting Einstein Robert Berks, Sculptor of the Einstein Memorial
The Creation of the Memorial Philip Handler, former President of the National Academy of Sciences
The Theory of Relativity Nobel Laureate and NAS Member Albert Einstein (1947 recording) Permission Courtesy of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel Recording Courtesy of Granada International
Visual Arts and the Einstein Memorial JD Talasek, Director of Cultural Programs of the NAS
Bertram Goodhue: NAS Building Architect Romy Wyllie, Author of Bertram Goodhue: His Life and Residential Architecture
History of the NAS Building Janice Goldblum, Archivist at the NAS
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