Installation Artist
Biography: rodencrater.com
Light is such an interesting element when it comes to art and deign. Things look differently in different lighting, colors change, contrast becomes more or less apparent and shapes can seem to merge together or pull apart. Most artists have to think about how their work is going to be displayed, and lighting can be just as important as the sequence or positioning.
James Turrell designs light. He creates these installations to conjure up feelings and project them without actually saying anything, allowing the viewer to take it in with their own interpretations. Turrell creates his work to "impact the eye, body, and mind to heighten awareness." When speaking of his work, Turrell said "I want to create an atmosphere that can be consciously plumed with seeing, like the wordless thought that comes from looking in a fire."
From these photographs, James Turrell's work looks amazing. But I bet these exhibits are even more stunning in person. It feels like these bright, saturated colors are shining energy outwards. The contrast between the sharp, defined and smooth, feathered outlines of the lights create tricks of the eye. It feels like our sense of depth and space gets warped and changes between each piece. I also can't argue with the clean lines and simple geometry that Turrell uses in one way or another in every piece.
I would direct you to James Turrell's website, but from my research it does not look like he has a dedicated portfolio site. There is a brief biography and slide show of some of his work on a site dedicated to a specific project called Roden Crater. Check it out for more information. In the mean time, here are a few more of my favorites.
