James Turrell

American, born 1943

Explore selected works

See all 29 works of art
The artwork features an abstract composition with a series of intersecting lines and circular shapes. Central to the piece is a large concentric circle pattern. Various straight lines extend outward from this central circle, connecting to smaller circular and rectangular forms. The background consists of textured, earthy tones, creating a contrast between the geometric elements and the organic backdrop.
James Turrell, Positive Site Plan II, 1992, ink, acrylic, beeswax and photographic emulsion on Mylar, Gift of Manfred Heiting, Los Angeles, 2025.100.122

Positive Site Plan II

James Turrell · 1992 · ink, acrylic, beeswax and photographic emulsion on Mylar ·  Accession ID  2025.100.122
The image shows a swirling, elliptical shape made of concentric, curved lines that radiate from a central void. Superimposed on this central form are multiple intersecting straight lines connected by geometric nodes. The background is a textured gradient of darker and lighter tones.
James Turrell, Original Crater Contours in White, 1992, gelatin silver print with beeswax, Mylar and ink, Gift of Lannan Foundation, 2024.94.28

Original Crater Contours in White

James Turrell · 1992 · gelatin silver print with beeswax, Mylar and ink ·  Accession ID  2024.94.28
The artwork features a large, bold rectangular shape in a vivid red hue, centrally positioned on a dark wall, creating a contrast. The composition is abstract, with clean lines forming the rectangle. The surrounding space is dimly lit, emphasizing the vibrant red as the focal point.
James Turrell, New Light, conceived 1989, space division construction, Gift of James Turrell, 2002.34.1

New Light

James Turrell · conceived 1989 · space division construction ·  Accession ID  2002.34.1
James Turrell, Jack Brogan, Gemini G.E.L., Roden Crater: Box, Model, and Aerial Photograph, 1986, mahogany box with fiberglass topographical model, dirt from the site, and one photograph, Gift of Gemini G.E.L. and the Artist, 2001.74.14.1

Roden Crater: Box, Model, and Aerial Photograph

James Turrell, Jack Brogan, Gemini G.E.L. · 1986 · mahogany box with fiberglass topographical model, dirt from the site, and one photograph ·  Accession ID  2001.74.14.1
The image showcases a combination of geometric shapes and lines arranged in a compelling composition. A prominent semi-circle is placed in the center, with precise lines extending outward from a central point beneath it, creating an abstract design. These elements resemble an artist's compass or drafting tool, possibly overlaying a textured background that hints at a lunar surface or grainy landscape. The semi-circle could be interpreted as a horizon or sunrise within the abstract arrangement of shapes and textures.
James Turrell, Photo Impact, Gemini G.E.L., Roden Crater: Fumerole with Solar and Lunar Alignments, 1986, gelatin silver print, Gift of Gemini G.E.L. and the Artist, 2001.74.14.9

Roden Crater: Fumerole with Solar and Lunar Alignments

James Turrell, Photo Impact, Gemini G.E.L. · 1986 · gelatin silver print ·  Accession ID  2001.74.14.9
The image shows a series of concentric oval lines forming a swirling pattern. The lines vary in density and intersect dynamically, creating a sense of complexity. The central area appears more dense, giving the impression of depth or elevation.
James Turrell, Photo Impact, Gemini G.E.L., Roden Crater: Initial Crater Topo, 1986, gelatin silver print, Gift of Gemini G.E.L. and the Artist, 2001.74.14.7

Roden Crater: Initial Crater Topo

James Turrell, Photo Impact, Gemini G.E.L. · 1986 · gelatin silver print ·  Accession ID  2001.74.14.7
This is a photograph of an open wooden box containing dark sand or soil, with a black-and-white image inside the lid. The box is made of polished dark wood, with a top lid that is propped open revealing an image. Inside the main compartment, there is a layer of brown, uneven sand or soil surface. Below the main compartment, a drawer is partially open, revealing a document or card with visible text "RODEN CRATER". The construction of the box features brass hinges and a clasp. The photograph captures a detailed assemblage against a light background.
James Turrell, Jack Brogan, Douglas Parker, John Coy, Craig Adcock, Ajax Daniels, Mari Andrews, Mari Andrews, Gemini G.E.L., Roden Crater, 1986, mahogany box with fiberglass topographical model, dirt from the site, nine photographs, one lithograph, four text pages, and a statement book, Gift of Gemini G.E.L. and the Artist, 2001.74.14.1-12

Roden Crater

James Turrell, Jack Brogan, Douglas Parker, John Coy, Craig Adcock, Ajax Daniels, Mari Andrews, Mari Andrews, Gemini G.E.L. · 1986 · mahogany box with fiberglass topographical model, dirt from the site, nine photographs, one lithograph, four text pages, and a statement book ·  Accession ID  2001.74.14.1-12
The image displays concentric circles surrounded by sweeping, curvilinear lines converging in an abstract design. The central circular shape resembles a target or bullseye, with surrounding arcs and lines creating the impression of a compass or astronomical instrument. The composition features intricate lines and arcs, giving the viewer the sense of a stylized satellite or space exploration map.
James Turrell, Photo Impact, Gemini G.E.L., Roden Crater: Third Stage Site Plan with Segmented Cross Section, 1986, gelatin silver print, Gift of Gemini G.E.L. and the Artist, 2001.74.14.5

Roden Crater: Third Stage Site Plan with Segmented Cross Section

James Turrell, Photo Impact, Gemini G.E.L. · 1986 · gelatin silver print ·  Accession ID  2001.74.14.5
This is a photograph of an aerial view of a circular landscape feature with intersecting lines and shapes. The image depicts a large circular depression in a barren landscape. The circular shape is highlighted by concentric rings that converge towards the center. Extending outward from the center are various thin, linear features that seem to intersect or connect at multiple points, creating an intricate geometric pattern. Parts of the lines and shapes are highlighted in white and black, adding contrast against the lighter background. These intersecting lines and shapes give a sense of structure or measurement. Shadows and textures across the surface of the feature confer a sense of depth and three-dimensionality to the terrain.
James Turrell, Photo Impact, Gemini G.E.L., Roden Crater: Roden Crater Site Plan, 1986, gelatin silver print, Gift of Gemini G.E.L. and the Artist, 2001.74.14.11

Roden Crater: Roden Crater Site Plan

James Turrell, Photo Impact, Gemini G.E.L. · 1986 · gelatin silver print ·  Accession ID  2001.74.14.11
The image shows a landscape with a volcanic cinder cone dominating the view. The horizon is defined by the upper edge of the cone, stretching from left to right. Dry desert vegetation in brown, beige, and muted greens fills the lower part of the image. In the distance, the cone's slope shows variations in color from dark brown at the base to reddish-brown near the summit. The sky is blue with scattered clouds. The scene features a rich color palette highlighting the natural beauty of the volcanic region.
James Turrell, Elmi Graphics, Gemini G.E.L., Roden Crater: Color Photograph, 1986, silver dye bleach print, Gift of Gemini G.E.L. and the Artist, 2001.74.14.2

Roden Crater: Color Photograph

James Turrell, Elmi Graphics, Gemini G.E.L. · 1986 · silver dye bleach print ·  Accession ID  2001.74.14.2