Olafur Eliasson at MCA: Beyond tripped out. Absolutely beautiful.

By Jen Hazen in Arts & Entertainment on Apr 27, 2009 5:40PM

All starry-eyed for the lush colors of springtime? Then set your sights on Take your time: Olafur Eliasson at MCA from May 1 - September 13. As the first comprehensive survey of the Danish-Icelandic artist's works in the U.S., this exhibit of sculptures, photos, and large-scale immersive environments, will leave you feeling like you’ve somersaulted in a kaleidoscope.

Eliasson uses multicolored washes, prismatic mirrors, and focused lights, along with temperature, water, stone, moss—even fragrance—to shift passive perceptions of art to an active, sensory level. The Scandinavian artist refers to this as “a double action” which allows you to “see yourself seeing” and become one with the space around you.

MCA, 220 East Chicago Ave., Exhibit runs Friday, May 1 - Sunday, September 13. Museum general hours: Tuesday, 10 a.m. - 8 p.m., Wednesday - Sunday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Admission is free all day on Tuesdays year round. Suggested general admission $12. Artist talk: Tuesday, April 28, 6 p.m. at the MCA Theater. Members $8, nonmembers $10, students $6. Tickets are required.