The artwork, titled “St. Elmo’s Breath,” was created by James Turrell in 1992. It belongs to the Light and Space art movement and is classified as an installation. This piece is part of the “Space Division Constructions” series.
“St. Elmo’s Breath” is a compelling installation that masterfully utilizes light and space to create an immersive experience. The central component is a large rectangular plane, suffused with a gradient of purples and pinks, subtly transitioning in intensity. The surrounding space is shaped by two adjacent, softly illuminated rectangular forms, which cast a warm, orange light, complementing the main plane. The darkened environment of the installation heightens the sensory perception of the colored light, drawing the viewer into a meditative interaction with the visual elements. Through his meticulous manipulation of light, Turrell invites viewers to reflect on their perception of space and the nuances of light and color in an environment.
