“Within Without” is an installation artwork by artist James Turrell, created in 2010. This piece is part of the “Skyspaces” series and is aligned with the Light and Space movement along with Environmental (Land) Art. The artwork engages with the perceptual aspects of light, space, and the viewer’s experience of the sky.
The artwork presents a tranquil yet complex environment that is designed to manipulate and enhance the viewer’s perception. At the heart is a large stupa-like structure with a stone-clad exterior, placed within an open-air chamber. This central feature is surrounded by a moat of water, which, along with the architectural elements, is subtly illuminated, adding a serene, glowing effect that contrasts with the natural light. The top portion of the chamber opens up to the sky, framing it and offering a contemplative space where the sky becomes an integral part of the artwork, with the changing light conditions altering the viewer’s experience throughout the day and night. The design encourages a slow, meditative engagement, drawing attention to the interplay between light, structure, and the natural world.
