Talking Points: Olafur Eliasson
How can installation art transform a space and change our relationship with the environment?
Olafur Eliasson creates large-scale installations that immerse audiences in experiences of light, colour, reflection, and shadow. Using projections, film, photography, and sculpture, he encourages us to think about how we connect with nature and the wider world. His work invites reflection on both everyday changes in our environment and larger issues such as climate change.
Watch the videos below and use the following questions to begin a discussion about Olafur Eliasson’s work.
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Olafur Eliasson
Olafur Eliasson’s interest in light came from growing up in Iceland, where for half of the year the country is in darkness.
Olafur is known for sculpture and large-scale installation art employing elemental materials such as light, water, and air temperature to enhance the viewer’s experience.
Explore more of Olafur’s work here.
Questions to Ask Children
Describe what you see.
How does this make you feel?
How would it feel to be in that space, interacting with the light?
How do you think the artist creates these playful light installations?
Questions to Ask Children
Describe what you see.
How do you think it would feel to interact with the light installations?
Does it make you think about space and colour in different ways?
This Talking Points Is Used In...
using sketchbooks to make visual notes
