I wanted to deal with light directly rather than with paint.
James TurrellRead
It is only when light is reduced that the pupil opens and feeling goes out of the eyes like touch.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote suggests that one's perception and emotional awareness are heightened in the absence of overwhelming stimuli.
James Turrell's quote reflects on the relationship between light and perception, indicating that in darker conditions, our senses become more attuned to subtler feelings and experiences. The metaphor of the pupil opening signifies a deepening awareness and appreciation of the world, suggesting that often, clarity and understanding come from moments of reduced distraction.
Themes
LightPerceptionAwarenessFeelingArt
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in an art exhibition discussing the importance of light in visual art.
More from James Turrell
All quotes βI 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
I'm known as a light artist. But rather than be someone who depicted light, or painted light in some way, I wanted to have the work be light.
James TurrellRead
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