Eleanor Bell - James Turrell Skyspaces, Chasing the Twilight

Eleanor Bell presents at [d]arc room 2019 about her involvement with leading light artist James Turrell and his UK public Skyspaces. Eleanor is an architectural lighting designer whose practice, and unique lighting fabrication studio, are based in Falmouth, Cornwall UK. Her projects range from high-end residences to award-winning commercial spaces. The portfolio also extends internationally to unique light art pieces and installations, working to commission alongside private individuals, corporations and renowned artists, including James Turrell. James Turrell is an American light artist renowned for his Skyspaces in which he seeks to provide contemplative and site-specific spaces in which to view the passing sky above. He says, “I make spaces that apprehend light for our perception, and in some ways gather it, or seem to hold it…my work is more about your seeing than it is about my seeing, although it is a product of my seeing.” The skyspace is even more dramatic at dusk with the addition of a concealed and dynamic lighting system. As the natural light fades, the introduction of artificial light into the space intensifies the perceived colour and opacity of the sky. Following a brief from James Turrell, Eleanor Bell was approached to design and install the lighting system in the Skyspaces at Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens, Cornwall and Kielder Water and Forest Park, Northumberland. Elanor Bell: https://www.eleanorbell.co.uk/