Inside the Studio of Light Artist Phillip K. Smith | Members Only

Most architecture is built from steel, glass and stone. Phillip K. Smith builds with light.

Phillip trained as both an artist and an architect at Rhode Island School of Design. He has spent his career making sculptures and site-specific installations that shift with the sun, the sky and the person looking at them. You may already have met his work: Lucid Stead in Joshua Tree, The Circle of Land and Sky at the inaugural Desert X, or his solo exhibition Light + Change at Palm Springs Art Museum. His reach goes well beyond the Coachella Valley. He has made a 42-foot work for Seattle Sound Transit, a permanent installation on the façade of the Newark Museum of Art, and Nora Mirage in Sardinia, which he created as the first artist ever commissioned by Dolce & Gabbana for Alta Moda.

Closer to home, and closer to our hearts, is 0/90/120. In 2025, Phillip installed eleven reflective, color-shifting volumes inside the historic home of architect William F. Cody. He emptied the house of furniture and turned it into what he called an “armature for light.” It’s a beautiful example of what happens when a living artist meets a modernist landmark: the building takes on new meaning, and the story keeps going.

On Friday, November 13th, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM, Phillip opens his studio to Preservation Mirage members. He’ll talk with us about his work and process, and then you’re free to explore the space where these works take shape. Light snacks and refreshments will be served.

This event is complimentary for PRESERVATIONIST, HOUSEHOLD and INDIVIDUAL members, the ticket price will automatically be reduced at checkout. ADVOCATE-level members can purchase tickets for $100.00. Attendance is limited to 60 guests, first come, first served. This member-exclusive event is not open to the public, newsletter subscribers, or guests.