In the 1970s, James Turrell began a series of works that he describes generically as "skyspaces." These are enclosed spaces - rooms or free-standing structures - open to the sky through rectangular or circular apertures in the roof. While they appear to be architectural in nature, these spaces exist solely to create the light effects and perceptual events that constitute Turrell’s art. This skyspace, Tending, (Blue), was commissioned as a site-specific project for the Nasher Sculpture Center. To achieve his optical effects, Turrell coordinates a complex system of lights that run in concert with natural cycles of sunrise and sunset, and respond to constantly changing atmospheric conditions.
Nestled in a planted berm at the northern end of the sculpture garden Tending, (Blue) is housed in a structure of rough hewn black granite blocks and contains two independently functioning, yet related, components: the entrance vestibule and the skyspace.
Exterior view of Turrell's skyspace, Tending, (Blue)
Rendering of the Sculpture Garden at the Nasher Sculpture Center
Cross Section View of Tending, (Blue)
Floor plan of Tending, (Blue)
The back of the garden
Aerial view of the Nasher Sculpture Center