I wanted to deal with light directly rather than with paint.
James TurrellRead
We think we receive all that we perceive, but in fact, we actually give the sky its colour.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Our perception shapes our experience of reality, suggesting that we contribute to its nature.
James Turrell's quote implies that our understanding and perception of the world are not merely passive receptions of sensory information, but active contributions that shape our experience. By stating that we 'give the sky its colour,' Turrell emphasizes the subjective nature of reality, suggesting that our minds and expectations influence what we see and how we interpret the world around us.
Themes
PerceptionRealityExperienceShapingMindSubjectivity
In practice
Example use cases
In a public speech about the importance of perspective in art and science.
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.
James TurrellRead
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.
James TurrellRead
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.
James TurrellRead
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.
James TurrellRead
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.
James TurrellRead
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