In Viewing Machine (2001), the experience and process regarding the audience perception lay among the central drives of Olafur Eliasson to create this work. The piece is based on the working principles of a kaleidoscope. Invited to manipulate the ‘viewing machine,’ the visitor can point it to whatever direction and observe through it a point of one’s interest.

The final image is the result of a superposition of reflections in different positions, thanks to the angulation of inner mirrors covering the sides of this hexagonal tube. The sculpture works as a tool to modify our vision of the world, ultimately offering the playful pleasure of perceiving oneself and the surroundings.