What is The Color Inside?

The Color Inside is a permanent public art installation and "Skyspace" created by artist James Turrell. Located on the rooftop of the William C. Powers, Jr. Student Activity Center at UT Austin, it features a small elliptical chamber with an opening in the ceiling called an oculus, designed as a quiet retreat for reflection.

When is the best time to visit?

The optimal times to experience the artwork are during sunrise and sunset, when custom LED light sequences project onto the ceiling for about an hour, altering your perception of the sky's color.

Do I need reservations to visit?

Yes, while the space is open to the public, booking a free reservation on the website is highly recommended for the popular evening sunset light sequences. Reservations open one day in advance.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

The Color Inside in Austin

What to know

"The Color Inside" is a permanent public art installation by acclaimed artist James Turrell, commissioned in 2008 by Landmarks, the public art program of The University of Texas at Austin. Completed in October 2013, this masterpiece is situated three floors up on the rooftop garden of the William C. Powers, Jr. Student Activity Center. The Student Activity Center itself opened in 2011, and construction on the Skyspace commenced on its rooftop. The project arose from the student body's desire for a peaceful retreat. Today, it stands as a milestone in UT’s Landmarks collection and is recognized as Turrell’s eighty-fourth Skyspace, as well as one of only twelve such public installations in the United States. Designed as a naked-eye observatory, the installation occupies a compact area of 520 square feet. Inside, visitors find a small elliptical chamber constructed as a dome-like structure that can seat up to 27 people. A black basalt banquette runs along the surrounding wall, inviting guests to sit. The focal point of the chamber is a round opening in the ceiling called an oculus, which is open to the elements. While the Skyspace is open throughout the day for quiet reflection, it undergoes a dramatic transformation during sunrise and sunset. Hidden lights project a sequence of colors onto the curved white ceiling. This custom lighting alters the viewer's perception of the sky visible through the oculus, making the sky itself appear to change hues. These mesmerizing light sequences last approximately one hour. Turrell himself explained that when naming the work, he was thinking about what you see inside, and inside the sky, and what the sky holds within it. This magical space is open to all members of the campus community and the public. Visitors can enjoy the chamber during Student Activity Center hours, but free reservations are highly recommended—and required—for the popular evening light sequences because they can fill up.

Visitor tips

Book your sunset reservation online in advance; slots open one day prior and fill up quickly.
Access the Skyspace on the third floor rooftop garden of the William C. Powers, Jr. Student Activity Center.
Plan to arrive early for your reservation, as the mesmerizing light sequences last about an hour.
Check the Student Activity Center hours before visiting, as access is tied to building operations.

Nearby context

Located in the heart of the University of Texas at Austin campus, "The Color Inside" is surrounded by diverse cultural landmarks. Just a short walk away, you can transition from contemporary public art to local history by visiting the historic Littlefield House, a striking Victorian home. Alternatively, you can head toward the edge of campus to see the iconic "Hi, How Are You" Mural, another beloved piece of Austin's public art scene. This mix of collegiate history, quirky street art, and world-class installations makes the university neighborhood a must-visit for any walking tour.