After a 28-month closure, one of Houston’s unique public artworks depicting various light sequences will reopen Sept. 15 at Rice University, officials confirmed via news release.
The structure, titled James Turrell’s “Twilight Epiphany” Skyspace, was built in 2012 as part of his global series dedicated to light-filled architectural spaces. Its temporary closure began in 2024 amid nearby construction of the university’s latest business school expansion, Asha and Farid Virani Hall.
A closer look
Twilight Epiphany, which bears a pyramid-shaped formation, offers viewers both a physical and perceptual experience at two different times of day: sunrise and sunset.
Using LED light projections on the structure’s pure white ceiling, Turrell’s skyspace presents guests with visual light sequences showing off the tones and colors of the natural world. These tones are created by cast light and naturally occurring light from the sky, according to the Moody Center for the Arts website.
The skyspace is located inside the Suzanne Deal Booth Centennial Pavilion on Rice’s property, adjacent to the Shepherd School of Music. It is built out of elements such as grass, concrete, stone and composite steel, and features a 72-foot square roof, officials said.
Also of note
Among the more than 100 skyspaces designed by Turrell worldwide, Twilight Epiphany is the first of his artworks to be specifically engineered to host live music performances, as well as serve as a performance laboratory for Shepherd students.
It is additionally the only structure to reach two stories, which accommodates a combined total of about 120 visitors, per the release.
Officials said in the Sept. 2 announcement that during its closure, the Moody Center for the Arts replaced the space’s original lighting fixtures with a modern LED system and installed updated controls. These changes will expand the skyspace’s ability to support future performance customizations, while still preserving its artistic identity.
“The profile and popularity of the skyspace can’t be overstated,” Moody’s Deputy Director Joel Thompson said. “For students, it is an integral part of campus life. For Houstonians, it’s a part of the city’s identity and for art enthusiasts around the world, it’s a beacon that brings them to Rice University for a singular experience.”
What to expect
Once it opens, people may visit the Turrell skyspace with free admission, no reservations required.
However, although the structure will be open to the public throughout the day, seven days a week, it is recommended that visitors review sunrise and sunset times prior to their arrival to ensure they do not miss portions of the daily light sequences.
Per the release, the sunrise sequence begins approximately 40 minutes before sunrise and the sunset sequence begins about 10 minutes before sunset.
