Skyspace Lech

Skyspace Lech provides its visitors with an extraordinary way of experiencing light and colour, and a unique view of the sky. James Turrell's light installation was constructed in collaboration with local arts association Horizon Field - Kunstverein Vorarlberg. It is a cultural highlight for connoisseurs of art and laymen alike.

Situated beautifully amongst the Austrian Alps, near popular ski resort Lech Zürs, a 50 ft tunnel leads you inside the oval, domed construction. It was built mostly subterraneously, in order to minimalise its impact on nature. Going all the way around the room, a bench allows visitors to sit back and open themselves completely to the light show.

A Space of Light

The artwork reaches its full glory when the dome is opened during sunrise and sunset. During the 45 minute Skyspace-Concept, you experience artificial and natural light merge with different colours into one unique piece of art. If the dome needs to remain closed due to the weather conditions, James Turrell's Ganzfeld-Effekt programme is displayed instead. Both programmes are available within a guided tour only.

During the day, Skyspace can be accessed without a guide. Visitors can watch the sun as well as the changing sky through the open dome. Due to bad weather or during guided tours, Skyspace can be closed. Hence, it is advisable to call in advance to make sure the installation is open at your desired time of visit.

US-American light artist James Turrell is an important contemporary artist. He started work on his Skyspace series during the 1970s. Today, it comprises over 75 pieces situated all over the world. Turrell visited Lech in 2014, and was impressed by the Alpine landscape and its rough weather conditions. Hence, it was easy enough for the local arts association and Wolfgang Häusler (Galerie Häusler Contemporary) to engage him in the idea of a Skyspace in Lech.

Shortly after, construction began. Considering both the artist's requirements and the high alpine location, many challenges had to be overcome. The light installation amidst the Alpine panorama opened its doors in September 2018.

Skyspace Lech is located above the town of Oberlech, from where a hiking trail leads you up in 15 to 20 minutes. The installation cannot be accessed directly by car. If you are driving, park your car in Lech (Schlosskopf or Anger car parks). From there, you continue on foot, on public transport (limited availability during autumn and winter), or by taxi. During winter season, Skyspace can also be accessed via Oberlech mountain railway and Schloßkopf chair lift.

Furthermore, shuttle service is available to participants of guided tours. Busses leave from the Lech-Zürs-Tourismus office in the city centre 30 minutes before the scheduled start of the tour. A single ticket is €5, go and return costs €10.