CETHA
CETHA at Civita di Bagnoregio in Viterbo, Italy
Location: Palazzo Colesanti | Viterbo, Italy, 2019
Media: Stainless steel, diffusion and reflective material, LEDs, custom lighting sequence, and electrical hardware
Dimensions: 15 ft x 10 ft x 5 ft
Radiating with an ethereal luminosity, the strength of the sun cascades off the hallowed grounds of Civita di Bagnoregio square, transcending the boundaries of time itself to reach back to the ancient Etruscans—the masterful architects who forged this extraordinary city.
The enduring echoes of their enigmatic culture intertwine with the vibrant pulse of CETHA, a lighting sculpture by Grimanesa Amoros, named after the Etruscan word for “sun.”
CETHA is found at the entrance of this UNESCO site, where past and present gracefully converge. Viewers must climb a short but steep bridge to reach the top. Once at the top, the visitor is confronted with CETHA. The motif of the light sculpture is the intense sun that highlights the town’s small towers and the main square, where major holidays and events are held. The red tubing and its pulsating sequence visually represent the sun’s strength. The weaving in and out of the structure is a nod to the navigation of time.
When walking up the steep bridge, CETHA greets you at each pause. Viewers are welcomed by the work, which enables participants to step into the sun while visiting this historical city—beckoning visitors to partake in an immersive communion with the rich heritage of this town, forging a profound connection that reverberates through the ages.