American artist James Turrell is currently presenting a site-specific light work at Houghton Hall, Norfolk, the piece is the culmination to the exhibition “LightScape: James Turrell”. Artlyst visited the stunning grounds of one of England’s finest Palladian houses to see a preview of the acclaimed American artist’s latest project.
The spectacular 45-minute light display, which began at dusk illuminated the entire west façade of Houghton Hall with a slowly evolving light show specifically created by the artist as a direct response to the stately environment.
Artlyst was privileged to attend this very special preview of the exhibition, which centres around Turrell’s works in Lord Cholmendeley’s collection plus additional works on loan. Lord Cholmendeley has been collecting modern sculpture for many years and his impressive collection is dotted around the grounds of the estate.
The main part of the Turrell exhibition takes place on the ground floor of the main house. Small darkened chambers contain individual light pieces such as the green shaft of Enzu, Green, 1968, the red triangular shaped Raaethro, Red, from 1969, Shirim 2015 – a screen of changing colours hypnotising and drawing you in – plus models and photographs for his ambitious Roden Crater project in Arizona.
In this second part of two podcasts the artist spoke to Artlyst about his latest work, and his relationship with Houghton’s environment, where Turrell stood in the grounds of the Hall to discuss the nature of space and light.
Audio: James Turrell, Paul Carter Robinson. Photos, P A Black © Artlyst 2015 all rights reserved
Lightscape: James Turrell at Houghton Hall – until 24 October