The next art exhibit at Oklahoma City University is combining dramatic lighting and sound into an enveloping, immersive experience.
“Obscured Images” will feature a compelling dialogue between light and perception through the works of world-renowned artist Olafur Eliasson and contemporary artist Andy Mattern, complemented by a unique musical performance series by Onyx Lane. The exhibit will run from Aug. 18 to Nov. 20 in OCU’s Hulsey Art Gallery.
The centerpiece of the exhibit is ’s “1 m³ light, 1999,” a captivating work on loan from the Christian Keesee Charitable Trust. This installation, composed of halogen lamps, steel stands and a fog machine, transforms light into a tangible art object, a recurring theme in the artist’s extensive practice. Eliasson, globally recognized for his explorations of art’s relevance, challenges viewers to engage with their perception of space and environment.
Complementing Eliasson’s work are the haunting images of ’s “Ghost, 2022–2023” series. These platinum prints reveal faint traces of forgotten photographs on the backs of old pictures — a side effect of the platinum photography process. Mattern’s meticulous re-photographing and re-printing of these apparitions breathe new life into old works, highlighting the medium’s self-reproducing nature.
Another exhibit highlight is the four-part performance series “Refractions of Light: A Sonic + Visual Experience.” Built around “1 m³ light,” the performances incorporate “Cube of Light,” a post-classical visual album created by Christina Giacona and Patrick Conlon of . The series delves into the intersection of light, sound, perception and space, offering audiences new and unexpected ways to engage with visual art and contemporary classical music.
Special performances will be held from 5-7 p.m. on the following dates:
- Aug. 21: “An Immersive Performance of Light and Sound” – Experience “Cube of Light” live with a string ensemble and vocal soloist, blurring the lines between installation, concert and performance art.
- Sept. 11: “The Making of Cube of Light” – A behind-the-scenes look at the creative process of “Cube of Light” and “Refractions I: Light,” featuring live performance excerpts, technical demonstrations and insights from the production team.
- Oct. 9: “Refractions I: Light” – An electroacoustic improvisation performance where musicians respond spontaneously to “1 m³ light,” creating an ever-evolving sonic landscape.
- Nov. 13: “Dolby Atmos Album Experience – Refractions I: Light” – Immersions in a spatial sound installation of “Refractions I: Light” through a fixed-media Dolby Atmos playback, presented alongside Eliasson’s sculpture.
Additional dynamic showings will take place throughout the exhibit’s run, with dates to be determined. Showing appointments can be made by contacting the gallery director via email at [email protected]. Mattern’s artwork will be viewable during regular gallery hours.
The Hulsey Art Gallery is located in OCU’s Norick Art Center at 1608 NW 26th St. Admission is free and hours are 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Friday. For more information visit okcu.edu/artgallery.
About the artists:
Olafur Eliasson is a Danish-Icelandic artist renowned for his large-scale installations, paintings, sculptures, photography and film. His work explores perception, movement and the relationship between nature and art.
Andy Mattern is an artist whose work delves into the hidden aspects of photographic history, revealing latent images through unique printing processes.
Onyx Lane is a creative label founded by Christina Giacona and Patrick Conlon, specializing in immersive audio experiences, contemporary classical music and innovative media formats.
