A dazzling new art illumination is coming to the Smithsonian Castle
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The Smithsonian Castle will be illuminated by artist Refik Anadol for two special nights. Photo: Courtesy Smithsonian Institution
Move over fireworks — there's another National Mall light show that promises to bring throngs of spectators: a nighttime illumination of the Smithsonian Castle by internationally acclaimed artist Refik Anadol.
Why it matters: For the first time in nearly 180 years, the historic castle will become the canvas for a monumental projection of digitized objects in the institution's massive collections.
Driving the news: "Smithsonian Dreams" will take over the Castle on July 17 and 18.
- Beginning at 9pm each night, the Turkish-American artist's AI-generated visuals will illuminate the Castle's iconic red sandstone façade as part of the institute's America 250 celebration.
How it works: Developed by Refik Anadol Studio, a custom visualization system maps relationships across the collections, creating a constantly evolving display of light, sound and imagery.
- The visuals draw from millions of digitized specimens, manuscripts, photographs, artworks and scientific records.
Between the lines: Rather than telling a single story, the installation unfolds through themes of discovery, preservation, creativity and collective memory — tracing the Smithsonian's history from its 1846 founding to today.
By the numbers: The Smithsonian's collections include:
- More than 157 million objects and specimens.
- 2.1 million library volumes.
- Roughly 156,000 cubic feet of archival materials.
Zoom out: "Smithsonian Dreams" arrives just weeks after Anadol opened DATALAND in Los Angeles, billed as the world's first museum dedicated to AI art.
- It also comes as the Smithsonian pushes back against the Trump administration's criticism over its interpretation of American history.
What's ahead: The D.C. experience extends beyond the projection.
- The Smithsonian's Arts and Industries Building — also temporarily reopened for 250 like the Castle — will stay open from 6-11pm both evenings with drinks, snacks and DJ tunes.
- On July 18, the National Museum of Asian Art will host a public conversation with Anadol and museum director Chase F. Robinson about AI, data and creativity. Admission is free, but RSVPs are required.
If you go: The 20-minute illumination will happen twice each evening. Visitors are encouraged to arrive by 8pm to secure seats.