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Generally, we use light to illuminate other things. I like the thingness, the materiality of light itself. So it feels like it's occupying the space, making a plane, being something that was there, not just passing through. Because light is just passing through. I make these spaces that seem to arrest it for our perception.
James Turrell
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Interpretation

What this quote means

This quote emphasizes the intrinsic nature of light and how it can create a physical presence in art.

James Turrell explores the concept of light not merely as a tool for illumination but as a tangible entity that occupies space and influences our perception. He suggests that through his work, he aims to create environments where light is not just transient but becomes a permanent, observable element that can be experienced differently, allowing viewers to engage with it on a deeper level.

Themes

LightArtPerceptionSpaceMateriality

In practice

Example use cases

During an art exhibition, you might use this quote to explain the concept behind your installation.

More from James Turrell

I wanted to deal with light directly rather than with paint.
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It 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, it’s been waiting for you.
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