Event Two - Light Reignfall

Event Two - Light Reignfall

James Turrell works primarily with light and space to create absolutely stunning works of art. His piece Light Reignfall, currently on view at LACMA, is not only an incredible visual experience, but is the perfect example of the intersection between science and art.

An exterior shot of the Perceptual Cell.

Light Reignfall is part of Turrell’s Perceptual Cells Series -- a series of enclosed autonomous spaces built specifically for one person at a time in which one’s perception of space is challenged by light. To engage with the piece, an individual wears headphones and lies down on a bed that slides into the spherical chamber. A display of saturated light envelopes the viewer as the experience reveals the intricacies of light and the complexities of the human eye.

The exhibit draws on two key inspirations: perceptual psychology (the concept and construction of the sphere) and the “visual texture” of Southern California (the aesthetic character of the light display). Both of these are personal connections for Turrell as he is native to the area and majored in perceptual psychology in the 60s when studying at Pomona College. While it’s easy to attribute the success of the piece to Turrell’s personal connections, Light Reignfall truly shines when evaluated as an artwork that challenges the division between art and technology.

Inside the Perceptual Cell, demonstrating how one enters the space.

The piece was brought to LACMA as a gift from Hyundai Motor in association with The Hyundai Project: Art + Technology. The Hyundai Project was established with the intent of putting art and technology together in such a way that aimed to change public perception of the two communities’ divide. LACMA’s status as the largest art museum in the western US and one of the most popular meant that the piece Hyundai gave was one of the most compelling of the selection. Light Reignfall certainly lives up to the expectation. 

Breathing Light (on display at the Massachusetts MOCA)
  demonstrates Turrell's interest in light and space on a much larger scale.

Like most of Turrell’s work, Light Reignfall uses light to manipulate space and examine the abilities of the human eye. Turrell’s meticulous planning and calculations demonstrate a strong understanding of math, science, and technology that pair beautifully with the images created. Light Reignfall takes Turrell’s marriage of art and technology further and removes the passivity of the viewer. By being immersed in the piece, viewers see the light and experience its effects in relation to their own bodies.

Turrell encourages viewers to internalize his artwork and forces the scientific and technological to be acknowledged in tandem with the visual experience. Light Reignfall masterfully illustrates the potential harmony to be found in the combination of art and science.