James Turrell: Knight Rise

A free public Skyspace in SMoCA's sculpture garden, framing the desert sky

James Turrell: Knight Rise Immersive Event - Main Image
James Turrell: Knight Rise Immersive Event - Image 2

Created by internationally renowned artist James Turrell, the elliptical skyspace Knight Rise is an architectural installation that heightens the viewer's awareness of light, sky and the activity of perception. Encircled internally with a concrete bench, Knight Rise invites visitors to observe the sky through an elliptical opening in the ceiling. The sharp edges of that opening create the illusion that the sky, rather than hovering above, is descending upon the space. Simultaneously, lights embedded in the walls just above the bench subtly shift one's perception of the sky's color. Located in the Nancy and Art Schwalm Sculpture Garden at SMoCA, Knight Rise is open to the public and free of charge.

Venue

Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art, Nancy and Art Schwalm Sculpture Garden

Start date

June 9th, 2020

End date

September 24th, 2027

Audience Role

Visitors sit on a concrete bench encircling the room to observe the sky through an elliptical opening in the ceiling.

Ages: All ages

Content Advisories

• No content advisories
• No sexual content

Interaction Advisories

• No physical contact with performers

Mobility Advisories

• Event is wheelchair accessible
• Seating available

Tags

Perception
Sky

About Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art

The Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art (SMoCA) is an AAM-accredited, internationally recognized institution committed to creativity, collaboration, experimentation and exchange. SMoCA fosters meaningful connections across diverse communities by cultivating an inclusive space for conversation, curiosity, and shared understanding. Designed by award-winning architect Will Bruder, SMoCA's minimalist building (a renovation of a former movie theater) has five galleries for showcasing changing exhibitions and works from the Museum's growing permanent collection of art by local, national, and international artists. SMoCA champions creativity, innovation and the vitality of the visual arts, seeking to build and educate audiences for modern and contemporary art.