James Turrell

James Turrell (b. 1943) was born and raised in the Los Angeles area. His undergraduate studies at PomonaCollege focused on perceptual psychology and mathematics. He received a MFA from ClaremontGraduateSchool. He is the recipient of numerous awards including the prestigious Guggenheim and MacArthur “genius” fellowships. Turrell’s work involves explorations in light and space, impacting the eye, body and mind. His fascination with the phenomena of light is ultimately connected to a very personal inward search for mankind’s place in the universe. Influenced by his Quaker faith, which he characterizes as enabling a “straightforward, strict presentation of the sublime,” Turrell’s art prompts greater self-awareness through a similar discipline of silent contemplation, patience and meditation. More about James Turrell and his work can be found at www.jamesturrell.com.