Inspired by growing up in Denmark and Iceland, Eliasson’s use of natural elements evokes an awareness of the sublime world around us and how we interact with it; his projects often point toward global environmental crises and consider art’s power to offer solutions to issues like climate change and renewable energy. In addition to his installations in galleries and museums, Eliasson’s work has increasingly engaged broader audiences through permanent architectural projects and interventions in public spaces. Since 2012, Eliasson has also run Little Sun, a certified B Corporation that produces small, solar-powered LED lamps with the aim to provide clean, affordable, and renewable light to communities without access to electricity.

Eliasson studied at the Royal Danish Academy of Art in Copenhagen (1995). His awards include the Eugene McDermott Award in the Arts at MIT (2014); Wolf Prize in Painting and Sculpture (2014); European Union Prize for Contemporary Architecture–Mies van der Rohe Award (2013); Joan Miró Prize (2007); and the 3rd Benesse Prize (1999). He has had major exhibitions at the Venice Biennial (2017, 2003); Louisiana Museum of Modern Art (2015); Martin-Gropius-Bau (2010); Museum of Contemporary Art, Chicago (2009); Museum of Contemporary Art, Sydney (2009); Museum of Modern Art and PS1, New York (2008); Dallas Museum of Art (2008); San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (2007); Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen (2005); Tate Modern (2003); Musée d’Art Moderne de la Ville de Paris (2002); Institute of Contemporary Art, Boston (2001); and Kunsthalle Basel (1997). Eliasson has also produced a number of permanent installations and site-specific works, such as at Christianshavns Kanal, Copenhagen (2015); ARoS Aarhus Kunstmuseum (2011); Harpa Reykjavik Concert Hall and Conference Centre (2011); The Israel Museum (2010); and Hara Museum ARC (2009). Eliasson lives and works in Copenhagen and Berlin.