Creating an effect of reflected light with six mirrors forming a hexagonal tube, this work by Olafur Eliasson is based on the principles of a kaleidoscope. Etymologically, the word “kaleidoscope” is formed from the Greek words kalos (beautiful), eidos (form) and scopos (watcher): “watcher of beautiful shapes,” which the artist has reinterpreted as the work’s title, Viewing machine. The visitor is invited to maneuver the machine toward a point of interest inside or outside the gallery space. Through superimposed reflections, a myriad of forms is exposed.
