Olafur Eliasson

About Olafur Eliasson

Light, water and mirrors that turn nature into experience

Olafur Eliasson is a Danish-Icelandic artist born in Copenhagen in 1967.

“He transforms basic elements like light, water, and air into breathtaking sensory experiences.”

He grew up in Iceland and Denmark and studied at the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts from 1989 to 1995. He founded Studio Olafur Eliasson in Berlin in 1995. His work explores the perception of natural phenomena such as light, water, and temperature. He represented Denmark at the 50th Venice Biennale in 2003. His installation “The Weather Project” at Tate Modern in 2003 was seen by around two million people.

Olafur Eliasson at a glance

Born: February 5, 1967, Copenhagen, Denmark
Nationality: Danish-Icelandic
Known for: Large installations that use light, water and air
Medium: Installation and sculpture
Education: Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts, 1989 to 1995
Based in: Berlin, Germany
Notable works: The Weather Project (2003), Ice Watch
Website: olafureliasson.net

Born in Copenhagen in 1967.
Studied at the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts.
Known for immersive installations using light and mirrors.
Represented Denmark at the Venice Biennale in 2003.
Created “The Weather Project” at Tate Modern in 2003.

He uses simple materials like mirrors, prisms, fog machines, and natural elements to create optical illusions.

His work often addresses environmental and social issues, such as climate change and migration. “Ice Watch” brought glacial ice to public spaces to raise climate awareness.

He has exhibited at major museums worldwide. In 2019 he was appointed UN Goodwill Ambassador for renewable energy.

He also co-founded the social business Little Sun, which produces solar lamps for off-grid communities.

“Eliasson’s art extends beyond the gallery walls, addressing environmental themes. Installations like ‘Ice Watch’ serve as poignant reminders of climate change.”