Spencer Finch (U.S.A., b. 1962), Betelgeuse, 2015. Powder-coated steel, fluorescent light and colored filters. On loan from the Berggruen Gallery, San Francisco © Spencer Finch. Courtesy James Cohan, New York
Spencer Finch investigates the intersection between lived visual experience and scientific research. In works like Betelgeuse, on display beginning September 15, he uses a colorimeter—a device that measures the intensity of color—to record light seen in the natural world and replicate its hue and luminosity in sculptural form. In doing so, Finch not only examines how we see but also probes questions about memory, time and perception. A monumental light sculpture, Betelgeuse’s form evokes an explosive celestial object and emits the same light reading as its eponymous star—the second brightest in the Orion constellation.
Although the museum is temporarily closed, our digital doors are always open.
Visit Museums From Home to enjoy Stanford art museums from home.
The Cantor Arts Center is located at the intersection of Museum Way and Lomita Drive in the heart of the arts district on the Stanford campus. The Cantor faces the Bing Concert Hall across Palm Drive, northwest of The Oval and the Main Quad.
Parking is limited. Visitor parking is available on Lomita Drive and in a nearby parking structure at Roth Way and Campus Drive. On weekdays until 4PM visitors may use marked, metered spots. On weekdays after 4PM and all day on weekends, visitor parking is free and visitors may also use A and C permit spaces.