People and Places: House of Light

5:30 AM alam RINGS….time to get up…The gospel music pierces the early morning silence as I roll out of bed. My gaze falls upon a tranquil rock garden adorned with bonsai trees outside my window. The roof's edge drips with morning dew, and the cold floor sends shivers up my legs.

Tokamachi, Japan, a place of such quiet beauty that it's almost deafening. It's a world where the wind whispers secrets, and the birds hold conversations. In this moment, I'm reminded of my insignificance in the grand scheme of things, yet I feel perfectly connected to the natural world that envelops me, just like that Snow Camellia Tree outside my window, with its green and white leaves bending to the wind. 

After rising up off my tatami mat in the basement, I make my way up the narrow wooden stairs to the kitchen. I warm up some water poured directly from my Asahi Mt. Fuji water bottle, while throwing the gold suntory highball cans from last night into recycling. With the water at the perfect temperature and the instant matcha swirling into my cup, it creates a vibrant and brilliant shade of green. I carry it with me as I step across the hallway and into the exhibition room illuminated by the soft morning light.My hands are warmed by the mug, but my body begins to warm from the specialness of the moment. 

I lie back, body flat to the ground, looking up in anticipation, with excitement for what is about to occur. The roof retracts and the light show begins. In those moments I go to a new place. Not in reality. But also not in my mind. A new dimension of sorts. Unlike his normal light exhibits - where there is a time limit of 5 minutes, surrounded by the energy of others - this moment is unlimited. I am surrounded only by friends. The house to ourselves. No attendant is rushing me out. My mind is calmed, open to new ways of thinking. The lights dim…..I am lost for words. 

This place, my friends, is something truly special. If you happen to be in Japan, make it a point to visit. But I get it, life doesn't always allow for such journeys. But if you can’t make it, I highly recommend any of Turrel’s works. 

Now, what sets this man apart? What's the real deal with his art? Is it all about popularity for popularities sake? Or does he bring something profound to the table?

James Turrell, an American-born artist, has not only made a lasting and conspicuous impression in the art world but has also transcended the boundaries of pop culture, leaving a profound impact on anyone who dares to question the very fabric of their reality. His art is so powerful because it has the ability to make us ask questions about ourselves, our reality, our thoughts and even our perceptions. His immersive installations challenge our visual field so profoundly that they lead us to question not only what we see, but also who we are and what our place/purpose is in this amazing adventure we call life. 

Ultimately, his artworks serve as a flame for introspection and self-exploration. By manipulating how we interpret and interact with light and space, he gently leads us to a state of heightened awareness. But truly, he allows us to get there by our own accord and desire. This new place we find ourselves in, a place that is unknown and blank, drives us into a state of heightened awareness where the boundaries between self and surroundings blur and combine. In these intimate moments of contemplation, we are all self-prompted to delve deep into the untracked pathways of our mind, questioning our beliefs, perceptions and even the fundamental understanding of reality. 

As we bid farewell to this artistic odyssey, it leaves behind a trail of newfound emotions and wisdom, ripe for the taking. Mindfulness, a heightened bond with nature, profound moments of contemplation, and an enhanced appreciation for the beauty in simplicity – these are just a few of the rewards. Yet, what truly strikes a chord with me, each time I leave, is the enriched and rejuvenated perspective I gain on myself, life, and the vast universe we call home.This expansion can lead us to a feeling of personal growth, with more accepting and broader perspectives on ourselves and the world around us. These learning allow us to show up better every day not only for the person we see in the mirror, but for all those that intercept us in life's adventure.

There are few artists who make me feel this way, and for each of us this list of names is different. Picasso, Pierre Soulage and Marcel Rozek are at the top of my personal list, but in his own category is the work of one James Turrel. I share these words because I think his work is so special, and so impactful that everyone should experience it. But I also wanted to personally share more about his very special house of light, located outside the cities of Japan in the rural town of Niigata Japan. 

Shout out Lo Phillips for recommending this hidden gem. 

It's quite a journey, involving three train connections and a four-hour ride from Tokyo. The final train, I must admit, is a charming relic from the past – old but endearing. They collect your ticket by hand and toss it into a wicker basket, adding a touch of time-travel to the adventure.

Niigata's simplicity and authenticity create the perfect backdrop for James Turrell's work to truly shine, amplifying its impact on you. 

The house of light, also known as the “house of shinto” was opened to the world in the year 2000. It’s idea was first incepted after Jame’s met famous japanese art curator Nobutaka Shikanai in 1985. Nobutaka shared his desire for a lightspace in Japan and the rest is history. The pair landed on the rural town of Tokamachi in the Niigata prefecture, a town known across Japan for its natural beauty and tranquility. These two aspects of the location were crucial in the decision, as they allowed for a deeper connection between the installation and the surrounding environment. Modeled after traditional Japanese homes, the house and exhibit sit perfectly within the landscape, making one feel as if it has always been there, older than time itself. Photography is allowed, but it is asked that no one share their photos of the light show to the outside world, allowing every attendees experience to be truly unique. And that is truly what your experience becomes…unique. Turrell’s works are so popular they are usually marred by long lines and short time windows. This experience is an absolute treasure, offering a tranquil and private haven for those fortunate enough to spend a night within its embrace. 

If you are ever in Japan, no matter for how long, I highly recommend making the pilgrimage to this space. It’s a unique and once-in-a-lifetime experience, which is why we’ve proudly added it to our “People And Places Undermind” series. 

And for those who might not have the opportunity to visit this particular gem, don't be disheartened, Turrel’s works are scattered all over the world. Seek out any of Turrell's creations, even the simplest ones, and seize the chance to immerse yourself. I promise you'll walk away with a new-found connection to both yourself and the world that surrounds you.