I wanted to deal with light directly rather than with paint.
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.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes the transformative power of light in influencing our perception and experience of reality.
In this quote, James Turrell expresses the idea that light is not just a physical phenomenon but also a vital element that shapes our perception of the world. He compares light to 'Vitamin D' that nourishes us and suggests that our interaction with light can profoundly enhance our awareness and understanding, likening it to a magical substance that influences our experiences and perceptions.
Themes
LightPerceptionExperienceArtTransformation
In practice
Example use cases
In a gallery discussion about the impact of light in art 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.
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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.
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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