Seoul: For American artist James Turrell, widely known as the master of light, light isn't just something that allows people to see other things. It's something to be treasured in its own right. At a press briefing for his upcoming solo exhibition, "The Return," at Pace Gallery in Seoul, the 82-year-old artist said the most significant change in his work was shifting from using light merely to "illuminate other subjects" to focusing on "light itself."
According to Yonhap News Agency, Turrell's interest lies in "what light reveals," both physically and perceptually. He expressed a desire for people to recognize light as having its own presence and value. This exhibition marks Turrell's first solo show in Seoul since 2008 and is a notable project for the Boston-based gallery as it celebrates its 65th anniversary. With nine branches globally, Pace Gallery opened its Seoul location in 2017.
The exhibition spans three stories of the gallery and features 25 works, including prints and photos. A central piece is "The Wedge," a site-specific installation that is part of Turrell's landmark series. This installation, located on the third floor, uses projected light to create a spatial illusion that challenges the architectural boundaries of the gallery.
Turrell noted that viewers may feel confused or disoriented by the installations, as they step into a reality "without a visible horizon." He compared the experience to being a pilot flying into a cloud or a skier in whiteout conditions. Despite initial discomfort, Turrell believes that over time, people will come to crave the experience, drawing parallels to the digital and conceptual spaces of today's world.
The artist also highlighted the connection he feels between his love for light and the strong cultural appreciation found in Korea. He praised the vibrant cultural scene in Korea, noting the country's art, music, and performance arts as particularly noteworthy. Despite his passion for art, Turrell humbly described himself as just an artist doing his job.
"The Return" opens on Saturday and will be on display until September 17.