This post was written by Haley Cotton ’25, Special Collections & University Archives Student Aide
Dr. Bulent Atalay is a distinguished faculty member at the University of Mary Washington. Beginning his career at the University in 1966, he is now Professor Emeritus of Physics, specializing in Theoretical Nuclear Physics. Dr. Atalay has made significant contributions to academic discourse by blending science and art in his work. He has authored both academic research papers and books, and created art that has been displayed in the United States and the United Kingdom.
Dr. Atalay’s latest book, Beyond Genius: A Journey through the Characteristics and Legacies of Transformative Minds, explores the lives of pivotal historical figures such as Leonardo da Vinci, William Shakespeare, Isaac Newton, Ludwig van Beethoven, and Albert Einstein. The book examines how their work has influenced both the arts and sciences. Dr. Atalay delves into why society regards these iconic figures as “geniuses,” exploring what it means to fall into this category and how we define it. If you’re interested in his academic discussion, attend the Great Lives Lecture on Thursday, March 13 for his presentation.
UMW Special Collections and University Archives (SCUA) houses a variety of his published works. Books such as Math and the Mona Lisa: The Art and Science of Leonardo Da Vinci (2004) and Leonardo’s Universe: The Renaissance World of Leonardo Da Vinci (2008) are available in both the Simpson Library collection and the SCUA. Other works, including The Lands of Washington: Impressions in Ink (1972) and The Oxford and the English Countryside: Impressions in Ink (1974), are housed in Special Collections. These series of works are compilations of art pieces by Dr. Atalay, depicting scenes of historic Virginia’s countryside and the landscapes around Oxford, England.
You can visit these collections during open hours or by scheduling an appointment to view Dr. Atalay’s art pieces!
