Experience Light and Nature at Skyspace Lech

A James Turrell Installation in the Austrian Alps That Plays with Light, Space, and Perception

High in the Austrian Alps, tucked into the serene beauty of Lech am Arlberg, lies a one-of-a-kind artistic and meditative experience: James Turrell’s Skyspace Lech. This extraordinary installation invites visitors to pause, reflect, and rediscover the natural world through a transformative interaction with light and space.

Skyspace Lech is not just an artwork—it’s an encounter with the vastness of the sky, framed and reimagined. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, an adventurer, or someone seeking a profound moment of stillness, this installation promises an unforgettable journey into perception.

The Vision Behind Skyspace Lech

James Turrell is a celebrated artist whose works are globally renowned for his ability to manipulate light and space. His Skyspaces, installed in various locations worldwide, are designed to create intimate connections with the sky by framing it in new and unexpected ways.

Skyspace Lech, opened in 2018, is a remarkable addition to Turrell’s oeuvre. Designed to harmonize with the Alpine landscape, the installation combines simplicity with depth. At its heart lies a circular chamber featuring an oval aperture, or “oculus,” in the ceiling. This aperture acts as a portal to the sky, drawing attention to its shifting light, color, and mood.

What makes this Skyspace stand out is its integration with the alpine environment. It is built into a hillside, at an elevation of 1,800 meters, the installation offers a perfect interplay of art and nature. Visitors enter through a tunnel carved into the mountain, which leads them to the central chamber. There is a circular bench all the way around the room designed for people to sit and look up.

The Experience: More Than Meets the Eye

At first glance, Skyspace Lech might seem deceptively simple. But step inside, and you’ll find yourself immersed in a space where every detail has been meticulously designed to heighten your perception of light and sky.

The chamber’s oval aperture serves as both a window to the heavens and a frame for an ever changing work of art. Depending on the time of day, weather, and season, the sky viewed through this opening can appear tranquil, dramatic, or otherworldly.

The Magic of Sunrise and Sunset

While the lightroom on the mountain is open throughout the day, its true magic unfolds at sunrise and sunset. These times are specially programmed with Turrell’s light sequences, where artificial light interacts with natural light to create a mesmerising play of colours.

During these moments:

The chamber is illuminated with carefully calibrated hues, shifting from soft blues to vibrant oranges, pinks, greens and purples.
The sky, seen through the aperture, seems to lower, creating a sense of intimacy and connection that challenges your sense of scale and distance.
The transition from daylight to darkness (or vice versa) becomes a meditative experience, allowing visitors to slow down and marvel at the beauty of light’s transformation.

There are guided tours available, but I’ve only ever been my own guide.

The Role of the Automated Aperture

An important feature of Skyspace Lech is its ability to adapt to the unpredictable Alpine weather. The aperture is equipped with an automated closing system, which activates during inclement conditions to protect the chamber from rain or snow.

This means the experience can vary depending on the weather. When the aperture is open, visitors are directly connected to the sky. When closed, the chamber becomes a glowing, enclosed space, with Turrell’s artificial light displays taking center stage. While weather can influence your experience, it also adds an element of unpredictability, making each visit unique.

A Conversation Between Art and Nature

Skyspace Lech doesn’t just showcase the sky; it frames the natural world in a way that feels deeply connected to the surrounding environment. The installation’s integration into the mountain creates a dialogue between the rugged Alpine peaks and the serene simplicity of Turrell’s design.

Each season brings its own charm:

In summer, the lush green landscape provides a vivid contrast to the clear blue skies visible through the aperture.
In winter, snow blankets the installation, transforming the chamber into a quiet, ethereal sanctuary where the light sequences glow softly against the icy backdrop.

Whether you’re visiting during the warm months or the depths of winter, Skyspace Lech amplifies the beauty of its surroundings, encouraging visitors to see the world in a new light.

Planning Your Visit

If you’re ready to experience the magic of Skyspace Lech, here’s how to make the most of your trip:

Location: Skyspace Lech is located near Oberlech, Austria, and can be reached via a scenic hiking trail in summer and by skis or on foot in winter.
Timing: Time your visit 45 minutes before sunrise or during sunset to experience the light exhibition. Advance reservations are essential for a guided tour, but the room is quite large. There are also a few days when its closed for private tours or for maintenance so be sure to check the schedule online.
Weather Considerations: Keep in mind that the aperture may close automatically in adverse weather. Check the forecast to increase your chances of seeing the sky open above you. Also be prepared for a little wreck if you’re coming on foot in winter. There is a nice Winterwanderweg (winter trail/path) and many signs along the way.

Why Skyspace Lech Should Be on Your Bucket List

James Turrell’s Skyspace Lech is more than a destination—it’s an experience that lingers long after you leave. The installation invites you to slow down, to observe, and to connect with something greater than yourself. By framing the sky and blending natural and artificial light, Skyspace Lech offers a new way of seeing. It’s a reminder that beauty lies not just in the grand and dramatic but also in the subtle and ephemeral. the surrounding mountains are also spectacular.

In today’s fast-paced world, the chance to pause and contemplate the changing sky is a gift. Whether you’re bathed in the fiery hues of a sunset or immersed in the quiet glow of dawn, Skyspace Lech leaves an indelible mark on your mind and spirit.

Pro Tip: in the winter, dress warmly but also bring a blanket and warm drink in a thermos for an exceptional winter experience