James Turrell

A Retrospective

Michael Govan

Recommended By

Book Reviews

One of Kanye West's favorite books.

Book Synopsis

"James Turrell" by Michael Govan offers a comprehensive exploration of the life and work of renowned contemporary artist James Turrell. This book delves into Turrell's groundbreaking contributions to the field of light and space art, showcasing his transformative installations and immersive environments.

Govan delves into Turrell's early years, discussing his upbringing and the influences that shaped his artistic vision. From his encounters with the Basque people in the American Southwest to his exposure to Quakerism, Turrell's background is illustrated as a significant foundation for his later artistic endeavors.

The book examines Turrell's mastery of light and his ability to manipulate perception, inviting readers to appreciate the profound impact of his work. With vivid descriptions and stunning visuals, readers are guided through Turrell's key installations, such as Roden Crater, Skyspaces, and Ganzfelds, showcasing his transformative use of color, shape, and illusion.

Govan delves into Turrell's approach to spirituality and his belief in light as an elemental force. He explores Turrell's collaborations with architects and scientists, who have assisted him in realizing his ambitious projects. Through interviews and behind-the-scenes insights, readers gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for Turrell's innovative artistic practice.

"James Turrell" celebrates the artist's profound contributions and invites readers to contemplate the power of perception and the transformative experience of art. With its concise and precise writing style, this book serves as an indispensable resource for art enthusiasts, scholars, and anyone seeking to immerse themselves in the visionary world of James Turrell.

Explore More Books

See All
The Construction of Social Reality
The New One
Different
The Complete Stories
100 Plus
Discovering Your Personality Type
The Model Thinker
Lords of Finance
Leading
Bureaucracy
Educated
What School Could Be
The Canceling of the American Mind
Inside the Rise of HBO
Emergency
The Little Liar
Disruptor
The Great CEO Within
The Journalist and the Murderer
A Mathematician's Apology
Xi Jinping: The Governance of China
Powernomics
Strength In Stillness
The Confessions
It's All Too Much
The Jack Vance Treasury
Ending the War on Drugs
Carry on, Jeeves
Fauna & Family
Parfit
Same As Ever
Matter
The Psychology of Achievement
Can't Hurt Me
My Years with General Motors
The Course of Love
Brute
We Wish To Inform You
Thirst
The Complete Works of William Shakespeare
Citizen Coke
Search Inside Yourself
The Power of Myth
Savage News
Human Compatible
On the Genealogy of Morals
The Origin of Wealth
James Turrell
Eisenhower
Poor Charlie's Almanack
The PayPal Wars
All Marketers are Liars
The Story of Civilization
Carrying The Fire
How to Get Filthy Rich in Rising Asia
The Unwritten
The Viral Storm
A Heartbreaking Work of Staggering Genius
The Evolution of Cooperation
I am Benjamin Franklin
From Headless Chicken to Golden Goose
Inversions
The Jungle
Savage Son
Caste
Radical Chic and Mau-Mauing the Flak Catchers
Originals
Slouching Towards Bethlehem
Getting to Yes
The Evolution of Beauty
A Very Expensive Poison
Mission
Mindstorms
Modelling Extremal Events
The Great Wave
Me Talk Pretty One Day
High Output Management
The Beginning Of Infinity
Ordinary Men
The Great Influenza
Game Engine Black Book
Inside the Investor's Brain
Makers
The Ultimate Resource 2
On Grief and Grieving
No Ordinary Time
Maps of Meaning
The Search
Fiasco
The Inflamed Mind
Value-added Measures in Education
How We Got To Now
The War for Kindness
The Almanack of Naval Ravikant
Toussaint Louverture
Under Saturn's Shadow
To Dare and to Conquer
Best Evidence
Bird by Bird
How Big Things Get Done