To be human is to long for light. We rise and sleep to the rhythm of the sun, and we have always associated light with divinity. Focusing on the arts of Western Europe, Lumen examines how the science of light was studied by Christian, Jewish, and Muslim philosophers, theologians, and artists during the “Long Dark Ages” (800-1600 AD). During this period, science (or the study of the physical universe) served as a unifying element for diverse cultures in Europe and the Mediterranean, uniting scholars who adopted, translated, and improved upon a common foundation of ancient Greek scholarship. Several contemporary artworks, including special installations by Helen Pashgian and Charles Ross, will extend the exhibition’s reach throughout the museum.
This exhibition is presented in English and Spanish. This exhibition is presented in English and Spanish.
Supported by a grant from the Federal Council on the Arts and the Humanities
Southern California’s groundbreaking art event PST ART returns in September 2024, presenting more than 60 exhibitions from organizations across the region exploring the intersections of art and science, past and present. PST ART is presented by Getty. For more information about PST ART: Art & Science Collide, visit pst.art
