I wanted to deal with light directly rather than with paint.
James TurrellRead
I don't know if I believe in art. I certainly believe in light.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote expresses a belief in the fundamental importance of light in creating and experiencing art.
James Turrell's quote suggests a deep connection between light and art, emphasizing that while the concept of art itself may be ambiguous or subjective, the presence and effect of light is an undeniable phenomenon. Light influences perception and creates a dynamic relationship between the viewer and the artwork, thereby making it an essential element in the appreciation and understanding of artistic expression.
Themes
ArtLightPerceptionExpressionCreativity
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be cited in an art class to discuss the role of light in various mediums.
More from James Turrell
All quotes βIt is only when light is reduced that the pupil opens and feeling goes out of the eyes like touch.
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I feel that I want to use light as this wonderful and magic elixir that we drink as Vitamin D through the skin - and I mean, we are literally light-eaters - to then affect the way that we see.
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In many cases, if we knew what it would take, we might have thought twice about it, so it's often wonderful that we don't have hindsight.
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There are different stages when you fly. The first stage is the dollhouse effect, seeing everything on Earth like it's a model. Suddenly, all of your concerns seem very small.
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Space has a way of looking. It seems like it has a presence of vision. When you come into it, it is there, itβs been waiting for you.
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