Es Devlin’s Library of Light – All photos re by ©Monica Spezia, courtesy of Salone del Mobile 2025.

Design. While climbing a library, famed writer Umberto Eco once said, “Books are the compass of the mind. They point to countless worlds yet to be explored.” From here, British artist and designer Es Devlin has created the Library of Lights, a revolving arena in dialogue with the architecture of the stunning 17th-century courtyard of Pinacoteca di Brera and invites readers to find inspiration. Until April 21, visitors can indeed flicker through the pages of over 3.000 volumes, listen to collective readings, join a programme of events with writers and even donate their own books.

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“I have always experienced libraries as silently intensely vibrant places where minds and imaginations soar while clutched like kites by their seated bodies.” Es Devlin explains. “This kinetic sculpture reflects the synaptic connections being forged, the resonances and associations at play within the minds of a temporary community of readers.”

Throughout the day, as the structure rotates, the angled mirrored surface reflects sunlight onto the columns, the portico’s statues, and areas of the building that were previously untouched by sunlight. At night, this illuminated structure casts shadow patterns on the courtyard walls.

A collection of readings narrated by Benedict Cumberbatch and Es Devlin herself fills the space with words and whispers. Their voices will be underscored by a composition by British duo Polyphonia, with solo violin drawn from Beethoven’s 1806 Violin Concerto in D major, Op. 61. Attendees can read fleeting verses on an LED display. Additionally, they can contribute by donating their own books, aiding in the growth of Milan’s public archive, as these volumes will be integrated into the Milan Library System.

For two weeks, the Library of Light will serve as a hub for ideas and discussions, hosting a series of gatherings with writers, curators, and innovators to intertwine art, literature, craftsmanship, and insights on our time. Read the full programme HERE.

Salone del Mobile commissioned the project for Euroluce, the biennial exhibition dedicated to lighting design. It was developed in collaboration with the Pinacoteca di Brera and Grande Brera and with the contribution of the Feltrinelli publishing house.

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All the Library of Light photos are by ©Monica Spezia and Salone del Mobile.