James Turrell is known for his conceptual art that sits within the worlds of light and space. Creating dynamic and alluring show-stopping pieces that are often exhibited in unique locations around the world, his latest work, Umbra, is found in Swarovski’s Kristallwelten in Austria.
Creating a new installation, “Umbra”, Turrell adds a luminous facet to the Chambers of Wonder at Swarovski Crystal World, which also houses works by Yayoi Kusama and LeeBul. “I am very much taken to how light works in crystal” the artist explained, as he has worked with Swarovski Optics in an outdoor installation before. Carla Rumler, Cultural Director Swarovski, commented that “it is an absolute honour to welcome James Turrell’s work to Swarovski Crystal Worlds. Light breathes life into crystal and ignites its magic. James Turrell’s understanding of light and its application in its most elemental form presents the viewer with an immersive experience. If you dare to be open to the enormous power light holds, Umbra will affect you emotionally and physically.”
Speaking about the new light and crystal installation, James stated that “‘Umbra’ is about the light that is in the soft shadow. In a lunar eclipse, you have the soft light as opposed to the very strong light that you saw reflected off the moon. This is a kind of light that is very soft and filling that I love. If you are looking at this piece, it is not about the light that surrounds the edge, it is the large expanse or panorama of this very soft light that actually comes from the reflection in the room.”
Since it opened in 1995, people have flocked to Swarovski Crystal World in Austria to explore fractals of light, and the range of crystals on display as art. James’ work will undoubtedly continue to pull more visitors – bringing a new dimension to the existing art there.
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