James Turrell ASU Skyspace: ‘Air Apparent’ in Tempe, Arizona
Tempe, Arizona, with its abundant sunshine, is an ideal location for James Turrell's "Air Apparent" installation. This 2012 work on the Arizona State University campus is designed to reconnect visitors with the sky. The experience begins with a walk through a desert garden, leading to a roofless square structure. Inside, visitors sit on benches and gaze at a framed section of the sky above. A large steel plate with a central cutout draws attention to the sky, making the familiar seem new and dynamic. The changing colors of the sky, punctuated by natural elements, captivate viewers. The most profound moments occur at sunrise and sunset, when hidden LED lights interact with the steel plate. These programmed lights alter the perception of the sky and its surroundings through a sophisticated display of color. Designed in collaboration with architect Will Bruder, "Air Apparent" also references the architectural style of the indigenous Hohokam people. This immersive creation encourages contemplation of light, space, color, and the enduring connection to the natural world.
