Grimanesa Amorós is a Peruvian-born American multi-media artist whose work explores community connections intersecting history, technology and architecture. Her keen understanding of structure enables her to create monumental sculptures, incorporating elements such as lighting and video to create immersive environments and connect viewers to their surroundings. Technology complements the concepts of her work without defining it – a medium of expression. She draws upon important cultural legacies for inspiration and presents societal issues like mental health. Her artwork ties the past, present and future – pushing viewers to think beyond and challenging their initial perceptions.
Amorós has been invited as a keynote speaker at museums, foundations and universities, such as TEDGlobal, Brown University, Parsons School of Design and NYU Stern. She was also a recipient of the NEA Visual Arts Grants Fellowship and has the distinction of being part of the Art in Embassies Program, receiving the Artist- in-Residence Award from Abu Dhabi Cultural Summit and being a CIVITA INSTITUTE Fellowships and Residency Program holder.
Her work has been exhibited globally in numerous museums, including the Ludwig Museum, CAFA Art Museum and the Katonah Museum of Art.
Portrait photo credit: Chiara Cussatti
SISTRUM is a site-specific lighting sculpture combining ancient Egypt’s mystical power with ceremonial music. The piece draws inspiration from the commissioner’s passion for music and the ancient world, aiming to create a timeless and immersive experience for viewers.
The piece transports its audience into a divine space. The artist has learned about the different afterlife concepts through her travels in Asia, Europe, Africa and the Americas. The artwork offers a sanctuary from modern life, where moments of independence and solitude invite viewers to reflect and connect with themselves. SISTRUM interactivity centres around a reflective dome, which captures and refracts a custom light sequence. Through their reflection, viewers are drawn into a meditative space that transcends the physical world, prompting contemplation on life, death and the journey beyond.
Photo courtesy of the artist