doug aitken sends mirror-surfaced hot air balloon across massachusetts

this summer, the massachusetts landscape has become the host of a nomadic art installation, courtesy of multimedia artist and filmmaker doug aitken. ‘new horizon’ is being presented across some of the most iconic properties of the trustees — america’s first preservation and conservation organization — as part of its art & the landscape public art series. making appearances from now through july 28, 2019, ‘new horizon’ includes a series of live events centered around a mirror-surfaced hot air balloon and gondola that vividly contrasts with new england’s natural settings.

all images courtesy of doug aitken workshop and the trustees

aitken’s reflective balloon sculpture takes its summer journey across the state, complemented by a curated conversation series, with discussions ranging from the changing climate to the evolution of digital identity. furthermore, a dynamic line-up of emerging and celebrated musicians and songwriters are taking to the stage in the evening hours, when the balloon is transformed into a large-scale light sculpture that moves with the music and the landscape. 

‘when we invite artists to respond to our landscapes through their art for our art & the landscape program, we expect inspired responses, but this project by doug aitken surpasses our expectations,’ says barbara erickson, trustees president & CEO. ‘he has taken not just the concept of the landscape but also the ideals of conservation, the values of social consciousness, and the nostalgia of the best summer road trips and blended them all into a visually poetic manifestation of the new england summer.’

‘new horizon’ appears in conjunction with a series of free and ticketed happenings, ranging from special sunrise viewings and tethered flight opportunities, to evening performances, events, and fundraisers. it premiered the weekend of july 12-14 at the trustees’ long point beach reservation on martha’s vineyard, and farm institute in edgartown. see the full schedule of happenings, here.