Magical Exhibit of Light and Color in NYC

Proving that art is more than pretty pictures, an exhibit (really more of an experience) in the atrium of Morgan Library in Manhattan proved to be totally enchanting.

Artist Spencer Finch has created a work that plays with light for a very specific purpose tied in to the raison d'etre of the Morgan, which features rare medieval manuscripts and art. Based on the medieval Book of Hours theme, tiny images in a prayer book would guide the reader in appropriate prayers for that time of day.

So, as the light from the outside of the Morgan shifts with the sun's movement, an elaborate scheme broadcasts the light in changing patterns at different times of day. (I'm not saying I could "read" these patterns, but I'm no medieval scholar). The work is titled "A Certain Slant of Light", referencing (I would assume) the poem by Emily Dickinson.

The work can be viewed from the ground level, but even more interesting is the view from the upper level balcony (center).  Also at the Morgan, you can see the restored library rooms featuring J. P. Morgan's collection of rare books. Another artwork which astounded me was the 12th C. Stavelot triptych, which contains what is believed to be a piece of the "true cross" . Amazing!