Los Angeles, California: Triforium
At the height of its power, a psychedelic cacophony of synchronized lighting and carillon music emanated from this 60-foot-tall crystal and concrete sculpture. It has been the butt of art critic derision and unkind nicknames ("The Schlockenspiel") since it was built in 1975. But it might also be the most beautiful thing ever.
- Address:
- Temple St., Los Angeles, CA
- Directions:
- Downtown Los Angeles, Temple St. and Main St.
- Hours:
- Always visible. Local health policies may affect hours and access.
- Admission:
- Free
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This is a very 1970s looking apparatus. When working, the lights dance to music. It's wonderfully wacky.
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Called the world's first "poly-phonoptic tower" by its sculptor, Joseph Young, Triforium was created for the LA Mall Civic Center in 1975 for almost a million dollars. It combined lighting effects of glass prisms with synchronized carillon music on its three 60-ft. tall concrete "wishbone" pillars. Among its many nicknames: Million Dollar Jukebox, Glass Harmonica, Psychedelic Nickelodeon, and the Trifoolery. April 2014: Photo added.