Immersive wonder: olafur eliasson’s new exhibition redefines light in los angeles

Olafur Eliasson’s latest exhibition, Open, at the Museum of Contemporary Art in Los Angeles, is a testament to the artist’s evolving engagement with light and space. This exhibition, which has been in preparation for many years, features 11 new pieces that invite viewers to immerse themselves in the transformative power of light. Eliasson, renowned for his innovative use of prisms, mirrors, and LEDs, has created an environment where light becomes a pure experience. One of the standout pieces is a giant rainbow produced by a round prism, which Eliasson describes as a full circle interrupted by the horizon line of the gallery floor. The exhibition runs from September 15, 2024, to July 6, 2025, at The Geffen Contemporary at MOCA, a space transformed by architect Frank Gehry in 1982.

The Intersection of Art and Environmental Awareness

Eliasson’s exhibition is not just about visual spectacle; it also serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of our planet. Some of his light sculptures, housed in towers up to 40 feet tall, are constructed from materials leftover from previous exhibitions. These structures, attached to the building’s skylights, act as kaleidoscopes, offering beautiful yet sobering reflections on environmental sustainability. The artwork named Observatory for seeing the atmosphere’s futures gives the sense of a sphere afloat, its hues varying with both climatic conditions and the passage of hours in the day. This work, along with others like the Viewing machine for imagining oceanic futures, underscores Eliasson’s commitment to sustainability in the art world, a field often criticized for its wastefulness. His collaboration with MOCA director Johanna Burton, who shares his environmental concerns, marks a significant step towards more sustainable exhibition practices.

Astra Lumina: A Celestial Journey in Los Angeles

While Eliasson’s exhibition captivates with its artistic exploration of light, Los Angeles offers another luminous experience at the South Coast Botanic Garden. Astra Lumina, part of the Lumina Enchanted Night Walk series, invites visitors to embark on a celestial journey through a garden transformed by light, projection, and sound. This immersive night walk, which begins on November 8, 2024, is a unique blend of art and nature, offering a one-mile trail that connects visitors with the stars. The experience is designed to be both enchanting and educational, providing a serene escape into a world where the sky and earth seem to merge. With ticket prices starting at $29, this event is accessible to all ages and promises to be a memorable night for families and couples alike.

Our Advice on the City

For those visiting Los Angeles, the combination of Eliasson’s Open exhibition and the Astra Lumina experience offers a unique opportunity to explore the city’s vibrant art scene. These events highlight Los Angeles as a hub for innovative art that challenges perceptions and encourages reflection on our relationship with the environment.

In conclusion, whether you’re an occasional traveler or a seasoned explorer, Los Angeles provides a rich tapestry of experiences that blend art, nature, and sustainability. For those new to the city, consider visiting during the holiday season to enjoy the myriad of light displays that illuminate the cityscape. For expert travelers, delve deeper into the city’s art scene by exploring lesser-known galleries and installations that offer fresh perspectives on contemporary issues. Los Angeles is a city that constantly reinvents itself, and its art scene is a reflection of its dynamic and ever-evolving nature.