When you think of San Diego, what comes to mind? Perhaps it's the dazzling sunlight reflecting off the ocean water, or the breathtaking red and purple hues of a sunset that blankets the horizon. These iconic Southern California images have long captivated artists. Decades ago, artists who shaped the Southern California Light and Space movement revolutionized the art world by harnessing the power of light in new and innovative ways. Now, that legacy continues with Mirror Mirror, a temporary exhibition on display at San Diego International Airport (SAN) in Terminal 2 in both pre- and post-security areas throughout 2025.
Mirror Mirror brings together more than 100 works by 16 contemporary artists from the region, all exploring the fascinating interplay between light, color, and space. Artists use a variety of materials including interactive LED displays, vibrant lightboxes, and yarn installations that invite viewers to engage directly with the art. Whether through optical illusions, dazzling surfaces, or unexpected contrasts, Mirror Mirror offers a dynamic experience, transforming your understanding of space and perspective as you move through the exhibition.
“We are thrilled to bring Mirror Mirror to SAN and offer travelers this unique visual experience as they journey through our airport,” said Kimberly Becker, CEO and President, San Diego County Regional Airport Authority. “This collection connects viewers to the Southern California arts community and the history that influences this contemporary art. We are grateful to the Airport Authority’s Arts Advisory Committee for their efforts to ensure that the arts are woven into the customer experience at SAN and reflect the richness of the regional arts and culture community.”
Mirror Mirror is open to all visitors at SAN. Whether you are arriving, departing, or simply passing through, take a moment to explore this captivating exhibition. It offers a unique opportunity to engage with contemporary art in a dynamic and accessible setting.
For more information about Mirror Mirror, including details on the featured artists and specific installation locations within Terminal 2, please click here.
Light and Space Movement of the 1960s
The Light and Space movement of the 1960s was driven by artists who were inspired by the unique quality of Southern California's light. They incorporated new, light-interactive materials provided by local industries, including aerospace manufacturing and industrial design. By doing so, they created minimalist works that invited viewer interaction and engagement, transforming with the changing light and surroundings.
**FOR PHOTOS OF THE MIRROR MIRROR COLLECTION, PLEASE CLICK HERE.**
***MEDIA ACCESS TO MIRROR MIRROR POST-SECURITY MUST BE SCHEDULED IN ADVANCE. ***
ABOUT SAN DIEGO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (SAN)
Owned and operated by San Diego County Regional Airport Authority (Airport Authority), San Diego International Airport (SAN) is one of the busiest single-runway commercial service airports in the world and the third-busiest airport in California. SAN contributes nearly $12 billion in economic activity for the region by connecting the world to San Diego and San Diego to the world. In November 2021, the Airport Authority began construction on the New T1 which includes the replacement of the current Terminal 1, improvements to the airfield, improved transportation connectivity to the airport, and a new administration building. The New T1’s project budget is $3.8 billion and is estimated to create between 15,000 to 20,000 construction-related jobs. For more information about the New T1 please visit newt1.com. For more information about SAN please visit san.org.
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