I wanted to deal with light directly rather than with paint.
James TurrellRead
From the very beginning, I was very interested just in light, and art seemed to be a way to work with it.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote expresses the idea that light is a fundamental aspect of art for the author, suggesting that art is a medium through which to explore and manipulate light.
James Turrell emphasizes his fascination with light and its integral role in art. For him, art is not just about creating visual representations but is fundamentally tied to the experience and exploration of light, suggesting that the manipulation of light can provide deeper insights and reflections in artistic endeavors.
Themes
LightArtExpressionExperienceCreativity
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about contemporary art practices, one might use this quote to highlight the importance of light in installations.
More from James Turrell
All quotes →It 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, it’s been waiting for you.
James TurrellRead
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