Olafur Eliasson (b. 1967, Copenhagen, Denmark) is known for multimedia and multisensory projects that inform perception. He makes large-scale installations, public projects, and sculptures that he describes as “devices for the experience of reality.” Eliasson, who grew up in Denmark and Iceland, frequently combines technology with natural elements such as water, light, air temperature, and movement in his works to highlight the sublimity of our world. Through permanent architectural projects and public space interventions, Elisson’s projects often attempt to offer solutions to issues like global climate change and renewable energy. In 2019 Eliasson was appointed Goodwill Ambassador for renewable energy and climate action by the United Nations Development Programme.
Eliasson has presented recent solo exhibitions at Museum of Contemporary Art, Los Angeles (2024); Palazzo Strozzi, Florence, Italy (2022); Kunsthaus Zürich (2020); and Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo (2020); Tate Modern, London (2019; traveled to Guggenheim Bilbao, Spain). Notable group exhibitions include Expressionists—Kandinsky, Münter and the Blue Rider, Tate Modern, London (2024) The Looking Glass, The Shed, New York City (2021); and Olafur Eliasson and Claude Monet, Frick Collection, New York City (2022). He represented Denmark in the 50th Venice Biennale, Italy (2003). His public art commissions include Lifeworld, various cities (2024); Ice Watch, London (2018; Paris, 2015; Copenhagen, 2014); Your rainbow panorama, ARoS Museum, Aahrus, Denmark (2011); and Green river, various cities (1998–2001). He lives in Copenhagen and Berlin.
(as of 2025)
