Robert Beck Explains the Science and Myth of Rainbows in New Upper West Side Feature
Robert Beck’s latest 'West Side Canvas' installment combines a painting with an essay exploring the physics and cultural significance of rainbows. Published by West Side Rag, the piece details how rainbows form through light refraction in water droplets and why they are often missed in urban environments due to building obstructions. Beck also addresses the phenomenon of secondary rainbows, noting their reversed color order and dimmer appearance. The article includes a lighthearted, satirical remark suggesting that Upper East Side residents do not see rainbows because they do not believe in science, a line that generated mixed reactions from readers. Beck invites community members to suggest local subjects for future columns and directs readers to his studio and previous works.