Medford, OR (Sept. 15-19, 2026) – Internationally recognized artist Peter Erskine, known for Solar Spectrum Art installations in European train stations and the Ancient Roman Forum, has lately turned his attention to much smaller venues — local public libraries.
Jackson County Library Services will host multiple public dedications and ceremonies of Erskine’s rainbow light art displays at various JCLS branches in mid-September.
Public display ceremonies are happening at the following branches:
- Butte Falls – Tuesday, Sept. 15 from 2:30 p.m. to 3:45 p.m.
- Medford – Thursday, Sept. 17 from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.
- Shady Cove – Thursday, Sept. 17 from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m.
- Eagle Point – Friday, Sept. 18, from 1:15 p.m. to 2:15 p.m.
- Rogue River – Friday, Sept. 18, from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
- Applegate – Saturday, Sept. 19, from 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
The art displays’ hallmark is splashes of rainbow color that illuminate various surfaces in the library, courtesy of prisms and mirrors that project sunlight. It’s part of the ongoing “100 Libraries – Healing Rainbow Light for Oregonians” project helmed by Erskine. The project began in 2023 when the 83-year-old Corvallis resident heard his muse whisper two words into his ear: “100 Libraries.” Erskine instantly understood the meaning and scope of this pronouncement. While Erskine is also undergoing treatment for Stage IV Cancer, he is traveling to small communities across the state, designing and donating permanent, site-specific, solar art installations to local libraries. The project has given him revitalizing energy he didn’t know he had. This project brings beauty, spiritual and emotional healing to public spaces, and enriches each community’s cultural experience.
Erskine has been at work on the displays in thirteen Jackson County libraries since March 2026. He has completed additional works in dozens of additional Oregon libraries, including branches in
Albany, Corvallis, Newport, and Woodburn. “We are incredibly grateful to be able to share Peter’s donated work across our library branches,” said Community Engagement Manager, Josh Letsinger. “Peter’s art reminds us of our connection to the environment and the ever-changing interplay between seasons in nature and in our own lives. Our mission to connect people is expanded through a new and unique form through this project, you have to see it for yourself.”
For a schedule of upcoming rainbow craft programs, visit jcls.org/events.