The Shed Hosts Doug Aitken’s Multisensory Lightscape
Los Angeles is the star in the dreamy but kinetic installation
This summer, visitors to New York’s The Shed are being treated to a 65-minute cinematic experience in Doug Aitken’s Lightscape. The work is on view in Gallery 2, where it is spread across seven screens in the 12,000-square-foot space. The project features contributions by an elite unit of powerhouses from across the worlds of film, dance, and music, including Phillip Glass, Beck, Gustavo Dudamel, Steve Reich, and members of L.A. Dance Project. The film, described as “Robert Altman-esque,” also stars actress Natasha Lyonne, magnetic even with minimal use of her signature gravel voice.
Lightscape is an evocative space for live arts, and will be hosting a performance by Sun Ra Arkestra on August 13. Music is a key piece of the conception here: the project was originally conceived with the Los Angeles Philharmonic and the Los Angeles Master Chorale, and premiered at Walt Disney Concert Hall in 2024.
LA as a character and urban diversity are also key factors in how Lightscape processes the American moment. “In unprecedented times of extreme change, Lightscape is a portrait of the United States, one of those very rare artworks that invites us to think about who we are, and where we come from,” said Artistic Director Alex Poots.
Throughout his career, Aitken has been known for working within landscapes. His current show at the shed is an opportunity to experience what he has been doing for decades: treating landscape as an active participant in the work as well as subject matter, material, and significant structure.
Lightscape is on view at The Shed in New York now through September 13.