MGM’s celebrated City Center, located on the Las Vegas Strip, is home to a collection of works by world-class artists and architects. Most of the art works are on display in public spaces. However, there is one hidden gem that requires a bit more effort to find.
In 2013 Louis Vuitton commissioned artist James Turrell to develop an installation located in a hidden space above their store in Crystals luxury shopping mall designed by starchitect Daniel Libeskind. The work, entitled Akhob, an Egyptian term meaning “pure water,” is open to the public but requires setting up an appointment often times months in advance. Groups of 4-6 are guided through a 24-minute experience by a team of trained docents. This highly choreographed process ensures visitors are prepared for the experience and the work is properly respected.
The work consists of two chambers that are flooded with colored light — light that gradually changes during your visit. The transition between floor and walls, walls and ceiling are masterfully smoothed so you don’t perceive the edges of the space. This creates the feeling of boundless space engulfed with colored light — producing a feeling of being submerged in the light itself. No photos are allowed so the image shown here is a rare photo found on an internet site promoting the installation. The experience is elegant, peaceful, mysterious and profound.
Although I am personally grateful and impressed, I will likely never purchase anything at a Louis Vuitton store, and I imagine many more visitors are in a similar situation. Luxury brands will often associate with great art and artists to advance their status. However, I can’t imagine my presence in their store while I was waiting for my appointment elevated their brand — in fact I am quite sure it was diminished.
My favorite moment was speaking to the docents about their experience. I was incredibly curious what working in the environment was like. I was allowed in the chamber for several minutes, but what would it be like to spend hours every day in these chambers? One staff member said that this job had a profoundly calming effect on his life. Going to work day after day was not a burden or something he dreaded — it was the most calming, peaceful part of his life. He commented on the stark contrast between his work environment and the mayhem we are all subject to in this world. His job improved his health, lowered his blood pressure and stress levels. How many of us can say that about our jobs? We could all use a bit more art in our lives!